From: Krems Valley, Lower Austria, Austria
Varietal: Gruner Veltliner
Taste: This vintage presents a vibrant and mouthwatering profile, characterized by aromas of yellow apples and subtle floral notes. It offers flavors of stone fruits, ginger, and cardamom on the palate, complemented by a well-structured and balanced acidity that enhances its freshness. The wine concludes with a spicy mineral finish.
Pairing: For a classic match, try pork schnitzel, where the wine’s acidity and minerality balance the crispy breading and tender meat. Another excellent pairing is asparagus risotto, as the wine’s herbal and citrus notes enhance the grassy flavors of asparagus while cutting through the creamy texture. Sushi and sashimi, especially with white fish or cucumber accents, also complement the wine’s freshness and minerality. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, Thai green curry with vegetables works harmoniously with Grüner Veltliner’s spicy and fruit-forward elements, especially when lime and coconut milk are in play. Grilled branzino with lemon and herbs is another standout, with the wine’s citrusy acidity echoing the dish’s light, briny, and herbal flavors. Vietnamese summer rolls, packed with fresh herbs, rice noodles, shrimp, and a tangy dipping sauce, pair effortlessly with the wine's vibrant profile. Or try some grilled zucchini with lemon and fresh herbs makes for a delightful vegetarian option, as the smoky, citrus-kissed flavors align seamlessly with the wine’s crisp acidity and earthy minerality. Together, these pairings showcase the versatility of this elegant Grüner Veltliner.
Zucchini Scampi
By Ali Slagle
About: Weingut Nigl, nestled in the picturesque Krems Valley of Lower Austria, is a family-owned winery renowned for producing wines of exceptional finesse and elegance. The Nigl family's association with viticulture spans centuries, with a history of farming in the region for over 200 years. Initially, their agricultural endeavors included grape cultivation alongside other farming activities. It wasn't until 1985 that the family, under the guidance of Martin Nigl, shifted their focus entirely to winemaking. Martin, after earning his enology degree, convinced his family to retain their grape harvests and produce wines under their label, marking the official founding of Weingut Nigl.