2023 Domäne Wachau Grüner Veltliner ‘Kaiserberg’ Federspiel

“Kaiserberg “(the “emperor’s hill) was the ancient campground of emperor Charlemagne, who banished the Avars from the Wachau around 800 AD. The vineyard is situated west of Dürnstein. Wines from Kaiserberg are renowned for their superb overall balance and their classical mineral character. The grapes for Grüner Veltliner Federspiel Kaiserberg were carefully hand-picked. Our modern grape reception system enables us to select only 100% healthy grape material. Short maceration, gentle pressing, overnight sedimentation, and temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel define the vinification process. Before bottling, the wine matured on the fine lees for several weeks.

Intense aromas including white flowers, subtle hints of stone fruit and smoky sweet spices as well as elegant tropical 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. The name Federspiel is derived from falconry which was a very popular leisure time activity among the nobility in medieval times. The falcon stands for the remarkable elegance of these dry white wines. Serve chilled. Drink now or store to mature for two or three years. Perfectly accompanies light Italian cuisine such as a prosciutto with melon, perfect with classic Austrian cuisine (crispy Wiener Schnitzel with potato salad), but also with a spicy Indian tandoori chicken. – Roman Horvath MW, Domäne Wachau