Gruner Veltliner
Along with Riesling, Gruner Veltliner is the most popular grape in Austria. Some is also grown in its former imperial partner, Hungary, and there are also wines of distinction from the Czech Republic.
Adventurous winemakers in California are also experimenting, with delicious results.
Grüner Veltliner's natural acidity and high citrus fruit content means it strikes a delicious balance between aromatic and refreshing. Not too sweet, yet not too dry, it makes an elegant and exciting white.
The grape is also very versatile. Capable of light, quaffing wines when grown in high yields, the grape takes on a different dimension when winemakers keep yields lower. The concentration of flavor can lead to a spicy, peppery quality that's delicious with light cheeses or even some spicier dishes.
Signature Style
Light with good acidity, vibrant flavors of citrus, flower petal and white pepper
Wines to Try
Jurtschisch-Sonnhof, Weingut Felsner
Principal Regions
Wachau, Kremstal, Kamptal (Austria); Southern Moravia (Czech Republic); Eytek Buda (Hungary), California
Synonyms
Grüner, Grüner Muskateler, Veltliner Blanc
- As its popularity continues to skyrocket, the grape's newly found fashionable status is represented in the abbreviation 'Gru-Vee.'
