2021 Alzinger Grüner Veltliner "Ried Steinertal" Smaragd, Wachau, Austria

ABOUT THIS WINE

Extremely complex vineyard that offers optimal terrain for both Veltliner and Rieslings. It turns a little to the southwest, so it still gets some heat in the evenings, although this is put into perspective by air currents from the north. The soil thickness, as well as the temperature within the vineyard, varies considerably. The foundation of Grüner Veltliner lies in the deeper and deeper terraces, whereby, despite a slightly creamier texture, vital acidity and profound minerality set the tone.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

Leo Alzinger is located in Unterloiben, just across the street from Knoll. Leo owns parcels in two of the great vineyards in this part of the river valley: Loibenberg and Steinertal. Loibenberg is a towering, terraced hillside, while the diminutive (5.5 hectare) Steinertal is hidden and maintains a cooler micro-climate. On the terraced vineyards of both sites, Riesling is cultivated on the higher, more primary rock rich parcels while Grüner Veltliner is cultivated on the lower, silty, loess based parcels.

Leo Alzinger Jr. took over the family domaine in 2002 after returning from harvest in New Zealand. Prior to that he traveled to other regions to gain more experience and was fortunate to spend time with legendary winemaker Hans Günter Schwarz just prior to his retirement in 2002.  “The most significant experience came with my work in the Pfalz at Müller-Catoir in the vintage 2000. Hans Günter Schwarz revealed things in the cellar, small details that gave stronger impressions of vineyard and place. He taught me not to be afraid of skin contact, that good grapes will give good phenols, for example. How important work with the lees is and many other things.”