Grüner Veltliner Beyond Borders: Georg Schmelzer’s Interpretation
Grüner Veltliner is not an exclusive variety of Lower Austria—never has been. The DAC classifications might make it seem like Grüner Veltliner south of Vienna’s city limits is an afterthought, but reality tells a different story. A dozen or more examples from as far south as southern Burgenland prove otherwise, and Georg Schmelzer’s interpretation is among the finest.
Unlike the norm, his Grüner Veltliner does not grow on crystalline rock or even limestone but on the sandy alluvial soils of the Golser shores of Lake Neusiedl. Sand, as Fabio Pracchia, one of Italy’s top wine writers, notes, has the significant advantage of excellent drainage, which keeps acidity lively and grapes fresh—a reason why the scorching, flat plains of Emilia-Romagna can still produce vibrant Lambrusco.
The rest of the success comes from Schmelzer’s 30 years of experience as one of Burgenland’s most distinctive and skilled winemakers, old vines, biodynamic practices, non-interventionist vinification, and careful aging in stainless steel tanks.
Style
Open and vibrant, marked by deep fruit and subtle spice. With a solid acidic core, a dense yet warm texture, and plenty of power for a low-alcohol wine. It boasts temperament, finesse, drinkability, and an elegant, juicy finish.
Technical Sheet
- Grape Variety: Grüner Veltliner
- Vineyard: Reitacker
- Harvest: Handpicked
- Fermentation: Spontaneous | wild yeasts
- Aging: In stainless steel tanks
- Filtration: None
- SO₂: Unsulfured
- Alcohol Content: 11.5% vol.
- Closure: Screw cap
- Serving Temperature: 10–12°C
- Optimal Drinking Window: From now until 2027
- Content and Price per Liter: 0.75 l (€18.50/l)
All winemakers listed at Vinonudo cultivate their vineyards using compost, organic fertilizers, and natural preparations, avoiding herbicides, pesticides, and synthetic fertilizers.
