2023 | Weingut Franz Hirtzberger Grüner Veltliner Rotes Tor Federspiel | Wachau | Austria

Classic Wachau Grüner from a grand master — the versatile Federspiel tier, all tension and drinkability.

Weingut Franz Hirtzberger, one of the two pillars of the Wachau, makes this Grüner Veltliner "Rotes Tor" in the Federspiel category — the middle, more immediately drinkable Wachau tier — from ~15-year-old vines across prime Spitz sites. Fermented with native yeasts, it's juicy, tight-knit and mineral, a superb food wine from a legendary address.

Federspiel Grüner from a Wachau legend is everyday luxury. Falstaff 93, juicy and mineral → the estate's Smaragds cost far more → at $63.99 you're drinking a grand master's "everyday" Grüner.

• 100% Grüner Veltliner
• Wachau, Austria — Rotes Tor, Federspiel
• Weingut Franz Hirtzberger — ~15-year-old vines, Spitz
• Native-yeast ferment; fresh, food-friendly style

Herbal notes, apple, a touch of mango and subtle orange zest; juicy and tightly meshed with subtle pear, balanced acidity and a mineral finish. Translation: crisp, versatile Grüner — orchard fruit and white pepper with a clean, mineral cut; a joy at the table.

A Wachau grand master's food-friendly Grüner. Exactly the white for weeknight dinners that deserve better.