Austria's Grüner Veltliner
An Aromatic Grape Varietal from Austria Not to be Missed!
Grüner Veltliner is a grape variety grown in Austria and is not particularly well known outside certain wine circles…but it should be! Many wine drinkers tend to stick to what they know, but the most exciting thing about wine is the vast range of options from around the world that crave discovery. White wines are generally less sought after than reds, but during the summer months, there is no excuse not to expand the boundaries and delve into the pleasures of white wine.
Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are the heavyweights of the white wine category and many beautiful representations are available from regions around the world. However, to really appreciate these varietals, it is advisable to develop a palate for other wines with which to make comparisons.
Grüner Veltliner is the most commonly planed vine variety in Austria, although it is also cultivated in other Eastern European countries. Often referred to as GV or ‘Gru-Vee’ to aid pronunciation, Grüner Veltiner produces fragrant, dry wines with peachy hints and peppery, spicy notes. Similar to Riesling, it is rarely blended with other grapes as the distinctive, powerful characteristics are best showcased alone.
Where in Austria?
The Grüner Veltliner grape is grown on approximately two-thirds of the vineyards in Austria. It is quite important in Vienna, however, the best examples can be found in the Lower Austria regions of Kamptal, Kremstal and the Wachau in the northwest. The Wachau is a favourite with Austrian connoisseurs for the sophistication of the Grüners made in the steep, sculpted terrace vineyards that run along the banks of the Danube amidst some of the most scenic of surroundings.
Grüner Veltliner with Food
This is a lovely grape variety and the resulting wines are easily enjoyed by themselves, as the best ones have complexity and length of flavour that deserve to be savoured. That said, GV is a great compliment to many foods, too. Any white wine pairs well with seafood and shellfish and this holds true with Grüner Veltliner.
However, due to the perfumed and spicy qualities, it will accentuate a much wider array of dishes including Thai stir-fries, baked Lobster and coriander chicken. This wine is also one of the very few that is known as an ideal accompaniment for asparagus which is particularly difficult to complement.
Your local wine merchant will be able to recommend a few producers whose quality is recognized, but the selection may be limited in certain areas due to lack of distribution, but as the popularity increases, so will availability, so do your part in expanding the access and take home a Grüner Veltliner today.
