Grüner Veltliner
Austria’s signature grape, Grüner Veltliner is certainly all the rage in the land of the lederhosen. Crisp and a little spicy, these wonderful wines are putting Austria back on the map after the whole anti-freeze catastrophe of ’85. Its best examples generally come from Wachau, Kremstal and Kamptal, however it is a variety that is growing increasing popular on the global stage and it can also now be found in Hungary, New Zealand, Australia and the USA.
What am I getting?
If you’re a Sauvignon Blanc fan, Grüner Veltliner will tickle your taste buds too. Typically they are citrus galore, wonderful aromas of lemon peel and grapefruit are perfectly complimented by some stone fruit undertones, and then comes the kick of the trademark Gruner white pepper spice. There tend to be 2 predominant styles of this wine; the first is light and fresh, packed full of citrus and mineral character. However, the second version is usually a little more complex; it’s spicier, fuller and has a rich texture that often requires several years in the bottle before it’s totally ready to drink.
What can I drink it with?
The high levels of acidity, served with a side of spice, make Grüner Veltliner an idal partner for Asian cuisine – spicy Thai flavours would work wonders. Equally, it’s a great match for seafood, or even sushi if you’re that way inclined. If you happen to be in Austria, the ultimate match comes in the form of the might Weiner Schnitzel – it cuts through the fried, oily texture and goes hand in hand with the creamy meat.
I want it!
Let’s not go crazy…
Majestic Loves Gruner Veltliner 2016 (dry, Hungary) £6.99 per bottle
All out!
2016 Berry Bros. & Rudd Grüner Veltliner Weingeberge, Federspiel, Nikolaihof (dry, Austria) £17.75 per bottle
What am I getting?
If you’re a Sauvignon Blanc fan, Grüner Veltliner will tickle your taste buds too. Typically they are citrus galore, wonderful aromas of lemon peel and grapefruit are perfectly complimented by some stone fruit undertones, and then comes the kick of the trademark Gruner white pepper spice. There tend to be 2 predominant styles of this wine; the first is light and fresh, packed full of citrus and mineral character. However, the second version is usually a little more complex; it’s spicier, fuller and has a rich texture that often requires several years in the bottle before it’s totally ready to drink.
What can I drink it with?
The high levels of acidity, served with a side of spice, make Grüner Veltliner an idal partner for Asian cuisine – spicy Thai flavours would work wonders. Equally, it’s a great match for seafood, or even sushi if you’re that way inclined. If you happen to be in Austria, the ultimate match comes in the form of the might Weiner Schnitzel – it cuts through the fried, oily texture and goes hand in hand with the creamy meat.
I want it!
Let’s not go crazy…
Majestic Loves Gruner Veltliner 2016 (dry, Hungary) £6.99 per bottle
All out!
2016 Berry Bros. & Rudd Grüner Veltliner Weingeberge, Federspiel, Nikolaihof (dry, Austria) £17.75 per bottle