2023 Rudi Pichler Grüner Veltliner Federspiel, Wachau

Pale chartreuse yellow with a silver sheen. Discreet notes of yellow apple, refined meadow herbs, a hint of orange zest. Juicy, elegant, mineral, tight-knit, a refined acidity, balanced, finely spiced, a salty finish, in an easy-drinking style.

92-94 points Peter Moser falstaff.com

Rudi Pichler Grüner Veltliner Federspiel is a pristine expression of Austria’s iconic white grape, crafted in the renowned Wachau region. Rudi Pichler, a fourth-generation winemaker, is celebrated for producing wines of exceptional clarity, precision, and purity, capturing the unique terroir of the Wachau. His meticulous vineyard practices and minimalist winemaking approach ensure that the Federspiel reflects the grape’s lively character and the region’s unique microclimate.

The Federspiel designation, unique to the Wachau, signifies a wine of medium body and elegance, with an alcohol level between 11.5% and 12.5%. Sourced from steep terraced vineyards along the Danube River, the vines thrive in Wachau’s complex soils, which include a mix of loess, primary rock, and gravel. This terroir, combined with the region’s cool nights and warm days, allows for slow ripening, preserving the vibrant acidity and delicate aromatics of Grüner Veltliner.

In the winery, Rudi Pichler focuses on a hands-off approach to highlight the natural qualities of the fruit. Grapes are hand-harvested at optimal ripeness and gently pressed, followed by temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel. This ensures the wine retains its fresh, lively character and precise expression of terroir.

In the glass, the Grüner Veltliner Federspiel shines pale yellow with green reflections. The nose is bright and expressive, offering aromas of green apple, pear, citrus zest, and subtle hints of white pepper and fresh herbs. On the palate, it is crisp and refreshing, with vibrant acidity balanced by flavors of orchard fruits, lime, and a mineral-driven finish. Its clean, precise structure makes it incredibly food-friendly and versatile.

This Grüner Veltliner pairs beautifully with light dishes, such as grilled white fish, asparagus risotto, or roasted chicken with fresh herbs. Its lively acidity also makes it a great companion for Asian-inspired cuisine, including dishes like Thai green curry or Vietnamese spring rolls.