Gruner Veltliner Put Austrian Wine on the map
Gruner Veltliner burst onto the American wine scene around a decade ago, and has become a mainstay of wine lists and retail shelves ever since. It’s one of the two most important white grape varieties planted in Austria—the other one is Riesling, which is typically made in a bracingly dry style there—and the sheer pleasure it offers for what are often remarkably reasonable prices makes it a standout in the entire world of wine.
What is Gruner Veltliner?
Gruner Veltliner is the grape variety from which Gruner Veltliner wine is produced. The grape can be grown around the world, but the vast majority of it is grown and produced in Austria, where it also reaches it peak of quality and outright deliciousness.
What grape is Gruner Veltliner made from?
Gruner Veltliner is made from the grape of the same name. Since Gruner Veltliner is not a specific geographical location, you can find Gruner Veltliner from outside of Austria, too—though the vast majority of Gruner Veltliner does come from Austria.
What does Gruner Veltliner taste like?
Gruner Veltliner is bright and mouthwatering, often with notes of fresh-squeezed lime, stony minerality, cracked peppercorns, and herbs. Many tasters also occasionally find notes of lentils in Gruner Veltliner. It is exceptionally versatile when it comes to pairing with food. Fans of Sauvignon Blanc often love Gruner Veltliner!
Is Gruner Veltliner oaked?
It is possible to find examples of oaked Gruner Veltliner, but the nature of the grape variety lends itself more to being produced in an unoaked style, which is by far the most common.
How long can Gruner Veltliner age?
Some Gruner Veltliner has the ability to age brilliantly: The acidity of the grape variety helps it evolve for several years. The best single vineyard Gruner Veltliner can last for years in the bottle. In general, however, Gruner Veltliner is best enjoyed in its youth, when it is at its most vibrant.
Is Gruner Veltliner a Riesling?
No, Gruner Veltliner is not the same as Riesling. They are two different grape varieties.
What food does Gruner Veltliner pair with?
Gruner Veltliner is very food-friendly. Its bright acidity cuts through butter and oil with ease—bring on the fried dishes!—brightens up grilled and sauteed fish and seafood. It also is a stellar accompaniment to light meats like chicken and veal. On top of that, its spice notes work well alongside aromatically complex and spicy preparations like curry. With hard and soft cheeses, it is a home run.
Are Gruner Veltliners dry or sweet?
Gruner Veltliner is almost always produced in a dry style, but there are standout sparkling and sweet examples, too.
How do you pronounce Gruner Veltliner?
Gruner Veltliner is pronounced grooner VELT-leener.
What are popular brands of Gruner Veltliner?
There are many popular brands of Gruner Veltliner, including Loimer, Laurenz V, Nigl, Winzer Krems, Gobelsburg, Anton Bauer, and more.
Browse our full selection of Gruner Veltliner online for a great new Gruner Veltliner to try this week!
Want to learn more about Gruner Veltliner?
Visit our Guide to Gruner Veltliner to learn more about Gruner Veltliner.