My coverage of Grüner Veltliner continues today with a selection from Graf Hardegg. This Austrian winery makes a bit more than 16,000 cases per year. 45% of their production is Grüner Veltliner. The other parts of their portfolio are also quite diverse. For example they currently stand as the only Austrian winery that produces Viognier as well as port. They’re located in the Weinviertel section of Austria about an hour north of Vienna.
The Graf Hardegg 2008 Grüner Veltliner vom Schloss was produced using hand harvested fruit This wine is 100% Grüner Veltliner. Fermentation took place over 25 days in a combination of stainless steel (75%) and large, new oak casks (25%). Bottling occurred in April of 2009. This selection has a suggested retail price of $20.
The nose of this 2008 Grüner Veltliner shows some bright fruit accompanied by hints of spice. White peach kicks in as well. A solid core of apple is underscored by tingly ginger flavors through the even, full flavored palate. Lemon zest and grapefruit flavors kick in around mid-palate and lead to the finish. The aforementioned finish is tingly and spicy with throat clinging mineral notes that beckon you back to the glass for more. This wine is crisp, refreshing and balanced by well integrated acidity.
This 2008 release from Graf Hardegg is a fine example of Grüner Veltliner. It’s delicious now and will drink well for the next 4-5 years. As with most delicate and complex white wines make sure you don’t over chill it for maximum enjoyment. Without question this Grüner is well worth the asking price