The Salomon-Undhof estate dates to 1792, and is currently on its 7th and 8th generation winemakers, father and son Bert and Bert Salomon. Their terraced vines overlooking the Danube have long been an excellent source, with the country’s preeminent wine guide calling them a “figurehead of Austrian wine history.”
“Austrian wine” is nearly synonymous with Grüner-Veltliner, and 75% of the world’s Grüner is Austrian. The grape’s typical expression is uncomplicated and fresh, with low alcohol and blend of savory, herbal, and dry fruit notes.
But today’s wine is a whole other level of Grüner.
Salomon’s 2018 Grüner Veltliner “Wachtberg” takes the grape to new heights. It’s classified Erste Lage (similar to premier cru in Burgundy), and we think it easily earns its higher rank. It shows the same fleshy dryness as Salomon’s simple Grüner “Wieden,” but with more depth and complexity.
The nose is clean and spiced, with notes of grape skin and aromatic bitters. The Wine Advocate’s reviewer agreed, awarding 90 points and finding it “round and creamy,…elegant and piquant,” not to mention “intense and gripping.”
This wine walks a perfect line between richness and freshness. Serve it with a dish full of herbs — a middle eastern salad or a couscous.
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Salomon-Unhof Grüner Veltliner 2018
bottle price: $24
FREE EAST COAST SHIPPING ON ANY 12 BOTTLES