Domäne Wachau hits new heights with latest Terrassen Grüner

The dynamic duo of winemaker Heinz Frischengruber and wine director Roman Horvath MW are continuing to raise the bar at Domäne Wachau.
Knowing they had unbelievably good vineyards at their disposal, they moved early and decisively to make the most of this advantage. They made clear their quality aspirations to their large band of family growers, offering higher prices if these expectations were met. It’s paid off handsomely, with these wines creeping ever closer to the dizzyingly high standards of the exalted family growers that represent Wachau royalty.
The Grüner Veltliner Terrassen Federspiel is the most important cuvée here, and this is where their progress will rightly be measured. The 2019 is the best yet – full of cool Grüner typicity with genuine texture and length, while allowing the drinker to bathe in the inherent complexities of this grape variety.
2019 Domäne Wachau Grüner Veltliner Terrassen Federspiel $29
The nose speaks subtly of green pear, lemon zest and peppery green leaves. A slender, crisp palate unites all these notions, with fine freshness and a lovely herbal zing on the dry, appetizing finish. The lemon zestiness rings long. 91 points.
Anne Krebiehl MW, Wine Enthusiast September 2019
2018 Domäne Wachau Grüner Veltliner Kaiserberg Federspiel $36
“Kaiserberg” (the “emperor’s hill”) is situated west of Dürnstein. Wines from Kaiserberg are renowned for their superb overall balance and their classical mineral character. Along with its lively yellow colour and green glow, there is a succession of intense aromas including Golden Delicious apple, subtle hints of pears and smoky tobacco spices as well as elegant exotic fruits. In the mouth it is a well-balanced, fresh wine with lively acidity, flavourful fruit and well-structured salty character causing it to linger on the palate.
Roman Horvath MW, Domäne Wachau
2018 Domäne Wachau Riesling Bruck Federspiel $36
Gentle but bright and sunny notes of lemon on the nose find their echo on the lithe palate. Green apple and zesty lemon play against a backdrop of fresh, creamy yeast on a very slender, fresh body with a dry and really zesty finish. 90 points.
Anne Krebiehl MW, Wine Enthusiast September 2019