Wine on the Radio - August 11, 2004

Gruner Veltliner                              Recommendations

Do you like trying new things?  

As wine producing countries go Austria isn't one of the big guys.   Fact is its probably better known for crystal glassware, the coffee shops of Vienna and Mr. Mozart.  

But Austria has a white wine that's now coming our way that's worth a try. Gruner Veltliner.  

Okay that's a mouthful so we'll just shorthand it to Gruner!   Gruner is a mostly dry, racy and tangy white.   It's a bit citrusy yet there's a spicy quality to it along with a clear clean taste.   Reminiscent of Riesling but a bit less acidic.  

Like most wine varieties there's a wide range of price.   Those at the top end are truly elegant wines rivaling the best whites of France or Germany.   Its easy to put with food too.   It adapts really well.   From fresh fish to a chopped salad, or from shrimp and pasta to chicken paprika, it just works.  

Austrian Gruner Veltliner.   Something new and a refreshing change of pace.  

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Our Picks and Recommendations . . . All Prices Approximate

2002 Loimer "Lois" Gruner Veltliner Kamptal $9
WA 87 points, Lemon/lime and spice aromas can be found in the nose of the light-bodied, refreshing 2001 Gruner Veltliner Lois. This is a wonderful thirst-quencher, tailor made for quaffing outdoors on hot summer days

 

2002 Prager Weissenkirchner Achleiten Smaragd Gruner Veltliner Wachau $33
WS 93 points, Sleek and minerally, this expresses the site more than the grape, yet it has the telltale grapefruit and white pepper notes

 

2002 Franz Hirtzberger Smaragd Honivogl Gruner Veltliner Wachau $48
WS 91 points, Floral and tropical fruit aromas and flavors combine with a vibrant structure and silky texture, all capped off by a strong mineral element on the finish