2022 Pittnauer Mash Pitt

40% Chardonnay, 40% Grüner Veltliner, 20% Sauvignon blanc, 100% fermented in Clay Amphoras before maturation in combination of Amphoras (80%) and Old Oak (20%) & no added sulphites.

Mash is a mixture of skins, seeds and must and is produced by lightly crushing the grapes. Mash fermentation is common practice for red wines, and for white wines it is the basis for what is then commonly associated with the name Orange Wine. The consequences of a longer maceration period are a massive expansion of colour on the once monochrome white wine scale, tannins that give the wines energy, liveliness and power, and an aroma profile that explores new sensory dimensions and goes beyond expectations.

Naturally, this requires ripe and healthy grapes. Fortunately, there was plenty of it in 2022. We would have preferred a little more rain in Spring and Summer, but all in all we were more than satisfied with the weather and the development of the vines and grapes. The fact that it actually started raining at the End of August was not a disadvantage. Even if it meant a little more work in the short term, the precipitation vitalised the vines and grapes before the upcoming harvest weeks.

We used the ultimately optimal grape material for a good three-week maceration. After that, the wine landed in 500-litre wooden barrels for nine months, in which it successively developed into a great whole. A little different from last year. More herbal, tighter and with even more pressure towards the palate.  Ripe grapefruit notes, green tea and yellow fruit characterise the aroma spectrum. Has grip and structure. You can look for fat for a long time, but muscles can be found. They are woven into a body
that impresses with finesse and elegance. In the finish, it moves across the palate without lurching and seems vital, inviting and very precise. – Gerhard & Brigitte Pittnauer