Salomon Undhof Grüner Veltliner Wieden Kremstal 2022
Salomon Undhof is a family-owned winery established in 1792 in Stein on the Danube River, Austria. The vineyard area is 30 hectares, and the Salomon family owns vineyards planted with Riesling and Grüner Veltliner in equal amounts, as well as a small amount of Gelber Traminer. The winery uses gravity throughout the winemaking process, with hand-harvested grapes going directly to the de-stemmer or press for 3-12 hours of skin contact for single vineyard wines. All grapes are harvested traditionally by hand only. Salomon Undhof produces about 12,000 dozen bottles of wine each year, with a range of wines that have great power and complexity, yet with lovely finesse and a striking mineral personality.
Kremstal wine region is a fascinating and historic wine-growing area in northern Austria, one of five wine regions extending on either side of the Danube river. The vineyards are centered around the town of Krems, downstream of Wachau DAC and boast ancient monastic vineyards and ruined thousand-year-old terraced vineyards on the slope of the valley plunging into the Krems river, joining the Danube river just east of town. This region is one of the most challenging and rewarding wine-growing areas in Europe and has been the heart of the wine trade in Austria. Kremstal wine region is Austria's smallest wine area, with only 2250 hectares of grapes accounting for 5% of Austrian wine production. The terrain and environment allow vines to perform to their full potential, with Gruner Veltliner accounting for around 60% of the vineyards in the Kremstal wine area. Riesling is another noteworthy grape in the region, accounting for 10% of output and being distinctive and rated the best in Austria. Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Zweigelt, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are among notable varietals. The Kremstal wine region has a rich history dating back over a thousand years, with winemaking and viticultural tradition. UNESCO has declared Krems' old town as a World Heritage Site.
Grüner Veltliner is a white wine grape variety that is an exotic alternative to Sauvignon Blanc. With flavors of green pepper and lime, the name translates to “Green Wine of Veltlin”. The primary fruit flavors in Grüner Veltliner are lime, lemon and grapefruit, with a green and herbaceous flavor often described as white pepper. What makes Grüner Veltliner wine so unique is its signature vein of acidity that explodes in your mouth like pop rocks. Grüner Veltliner is a popular grape variety in Austria, where it is the most widely planted grape variety and it is also grown in other countries such as Germany, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic. It is a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of foods, including fish, chicken and spicy Asian cuisine.
The Salomon Undhof Grüner Veltliner Wieden Kremstal 2022 is a light yellow-green wine that showcases the meticulous work done both in the vineyards and the winery. All the grapes are harvested traditionally by hand only, resulting in a wine with great power and complexity, yet with lovely finesse and a striking mineral personality. On the nose, it is reminiscent of fresh hay, green apple and a hint of lime. The medium-bodied, youthful wine is dry with a playful acidity. Aromas of white pepper and meadow herbs unfold on the palate, with green apple tones also being noticeable. The delicately spicy finish rounds off the wine, making it a delightful choice for any occasion.
The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Grüner Veltliner
Country - Austria
Region - Kremstal
Vintage - 2022
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 12.5%