The Story Behind the -H- in Roland Tauss Wines
The -H- in Roland Tauss' wines actually stands for Hohenegg, the steep hillside directly above his winery. However, he is not permitted to mention this specific vineyard on his labels. Like many other excellent winemakers (both in Austria and Italy—ignorance knows no borders), he was repeatedly denied the official approval number, or as many sarcastically call it, the red-white-red MINUS ON THE CAP. After years of struggling to obtain it, he apparently found it too tiresome to continue applying.
This is despite the fact that the Sauvignon -H- not only reveals the true potential of a grape variety that too often ends up thin, unbalanced, green, and ultimately unremarkable (though with an official approval), but it also holds up a rare mirror to the region's identity. For anyone looking to truly understand the terroir of Styria, this wine is a must-try.
The Hohenegg vineyard is steep and exposed, facing from southeast to southwest. The soil is based on sparse Opok, the classic marl of southern Styria, influenced by both cool northern winds and Mediterranean air masses. The berries from this vineyard are slightly smaller and harvested later than usual.
The Sauvignon -H- underwent spontaneous fermentation and was aged in both new and used, small and large wooden barrels. After two years on the lees, it was bottled unfiltered and unsulfured.
Style
The wine is yellow-fruited, tightly woven, mineral, and powerful. It showcases the full potential of a variety that is often reduced to simple aromatic spectacle. The texture is juicy, invigorating, powerful, and crystal clear, with acidity that guides without ever dominating. The finish is cool, creamy, and enduring.
Technical Sheet
- Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc
- Vineyard: Opok
- Harvest: By hand
- Fermentation: Spontaneous | wild yeasts
- Aging: Over two years in used wooden barrels
- Filtration: None
- SO₂: Unsulfured
- Alcohol content: 12%
- Closure: Natural cork
- Serving temperature: 10-12°C
- Optimal drinking window: From now – 2030
- Content and price per liter: 0.75 l (€42.13/l)
- Principle: All Vinonudo winemakers work with compost, organic fertilizers, and natural preparations, avoiding herbicides, pesticides, and synthetic fertilizers.
