Grüner Veltliner Grape
Aktie
The Grüner Veltliner grape is widely used in Austria for making Eiswein. Therefore a nice theme for this week's blog.
The Grüner Veltliner grape
Grüner Veltliner is a white grape variety that is mainly grown in Austria and some other Central European countries. It is the most common grape in Austria and covers about a third of the country's total vineyard area. Grüner Veltliner is also planted in other parts of the world, such as Germany, Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic and New Zealand.
This grape thrives in cooler climates and is known for its distinct aromas and flavors. The Grüner Veltliner grape is recognizable by its thick skin and large berries. The juice from this grape is generally high in acidity and medium in sugar, making it ideal for making sweet wines such as Eiswein. The grapes are harvested late in the season, when temperatures are below zero and the grapes are frozen. This causes the water in the grape to freeze, leaving only the concentrated juice.
The grapes are small to medium sized and have a thin skin that is susceptible to diseases and pests. The grape thrives in cool and dry climates and can withstand frost well. The grapes have a naturally high acidity, making them suitable for the production of both dry and sweet wines.
The Grüner Veltliner wines are known for their pronounced aromas and flavors of green apple, citrus, peach, pear and white pepper. The wines have a fresh acidity and a light to medium body. The taste can vary from dry to slightly sweet, depending on the type of wine and the vinification method.
Grüner Veltliner wines are often drunk young, but some premium wines can have a long shelf life. The grape is also suitable for the production of sparkling wines and dessert wines. In Austria, Grüner Veltliner wines are often combined with local dishes, such as schnitzel, fish dishes and salads.
Eiswein from the Grüner Veltliner grape
Eiswein made from Grüner Veltliner is generally golden yellow in colour and has intense aromas of exotic fruits, citrus, peach, apricot and a hint of honey. The taste is often sweet, but has a lively acidity that keeps the wine balanced. Eiswein from Grüner Veltliner can be stored for 15 to 20 years and develops over time into complex aromas and flavours.
All in all, Grüner Veltliner is a versatile grape that is suitable for making different types of wines, including the famous Eiswein. With its unique aromas and flavors, it is no surprise that this grape is so popular in Austria and beyond.
History of the Grüner Veltliner
The history of Gruner Veltliner goes back to the time of the Romans, who introduced viticulture to Austria. The grape was first mentioned in the 19th century and was known at that time mainly as a grape used for making simple wines. In the 1950s, however, winemakers in Austria began to see the potential of Grüner Veltliner and began experimenting with the grape. This led to the development of the high-quality, dry white wines associated with Grüner Veltliner today.
Grüner Veltliner can be vinified in different ways to create different wine styles. Most Grüner Veltliner wines are dry and are produced in stainless steel tanks to preserve their fresh and fruity character. However, sweet wines are also made from Grüner Veltliner, where the grapes are left on the vine longer to develop more sugars. These sweet wines have aromas of dried fruit, honey and marzipan.
Wine and food combination with the Grüner Veltliner
Grüner Veltliner is a versatile wine that goes well with various dishes. The high acidity of the wine makes it a good match with sour foods, such as salads with citrus dressing and fish dishes with lemon. The wine is also suitable for Asian dishes, such as sushi and Thai curries, due to its slightly spicy taste. In Austria, Grüner Veltliner is often served with local dishes, such as schnitzel and wienerschnitzel.