Being cold climate countries there is not much in the way of a red wine selection, save for the Austrian Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder). However, there are several white wine varietal vines that can survive the harsh winters and revive in the spring. Germany is most known for its Riesling wines, which have regained the position of most planted varietal. Second in gross planting is the Müller-Thurgau, a cross between Riesling and something called Madeleine Royale, which matures early and produces a fruity, low-acid wine. Austria is primarily known for its wonderful Grüner Veltliner, a fruity, spicy, mineral wine capable of long aging and standing comparison with some of the great wines of the world including Chardonnays.
2015 Biokult Grüner Veltliner, Burganland, Austria
List price 14.99; Our price 13.50
This Gruvy opens with aromas of lemon, lime and white pepper in a very crisp, fruity yet dry style. It has light to medium body and a long, tart nectarine and grassy earth finish. It has great acidity and is slightly reminiscent of a Sauvignon Blanc.
NV Fritz Müller Müller Thurgau, Rheinhessen, Germany
List price18.00; Our price 14.99
This lightly sparkling wine is meant to be the German answer to Prosecco and reminiscent of Prosecco it displays fresh-fruity aromas of pear, apple and grapefruit. It is mild and well balanced on the palate with exotic aromas and a delicate nutmeg tone. Sparklingly refreshing!
2009 Huber Riesling, Traisental, Austria
List price 25.00; Our price 19.99
For those who think of Riesling as a sweet wine, here is one to totally change that view. It is dry with no residual sugar present. It has mineral character with light green apple fruit. In fact, this wine may prove too dry for most tastes.
2013 Von Buhl “Armand” Riesling Kabinett, Pfaltz, Germany
List price 21.00; Our price 18.99
Von Buhl is one of the great wine houses of the Rheinpfalz region. This Kabinett is quite full-bodied, with a ripe power and excellent concentration along with the signature raciness that makes German Rieslings so unrivaled with food. This elegant Riesling is characterized by good structure, a forward acidity good acidity and fine fruit. A bit of history: in 1869, his Rieslings were served at the opening of the Suez Canal. Here is the style that can be served with many styles of hot and spicy dishes such as found in Asian, Thai and Indian cuisine.
2014 Clean Slate Riesling, Mosel, Germany
List price 14.00; Our price 9.99
The fresh, balanced taste of clean slate is achieved by carefully selecting grapes from vineyards throughout the Mosel. Ripe peach flavors balance ripe acidity, hints of lime and characteristic mineral notes. It pairs beautifully with spicy cuisines, Asian, Tex-Mex, Indian, and sushi.
2015 Mönchhof Riesling, Mosel, Germany
List price 20.00; Our price 18.50
The Mönchhof estate dates at least as far back as the 12th century, as evidenced by a document still in the Eymael family's possession, signed by Pope Alexander III, showing vineyard holdings in Urzig as early as 1177. And the wines have been popular for a long time, too. This wine tastes like biting into a ripe white peach, juicy, rich, creamy and sweet, yet offering great minerality and fresh acidity to balance the sweetness.
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