Nomadic Wines

Grüner Veltliner

Every few years, a new grape varietal catches steam and starts gaining popular interest. It seems like Malbec made a big push a few years ago and Grüner Veltliner is in the middle of its popular movement. Grüner Veltliner is a varietal that I think is based in Austria and it produces wines that are light but display minerality and good acidity. They aren't overwhelming, but they do well with food. Plus, cheesy wine pushers have come up with catchy names like "GrüVe" or "Groovy Grüner" or "Gru-Vee".

I have always like Grüner - I like that it is affordable, fruity, but low alcohol and better with food. I decided that I wanted to try out a few Grüners side-by-side, to see if I could figure out which producers I prefer. I went to Paul Marcus Wines and I got some recommendations from Ernest (now proprietor of a new Italian importing company).

I brought over the four bottles to taste them side-by-side with some friends. It was interesting to note that they were very similar, especially when first opened. They showed strong acidity, a layer of fruit on top of a sweet vegetal layer. They also all improved with air and with food.

Notes to be posted soon...

Labels: Austria, Grüner Veltliner, McClure, Paul Marcus

posted by nomadfromcincy @ 9:24 PM