Rudi Pichler Gruner Veltliner Ried Hochrain Smaragd 2022 (750ML)

96 JS / 96 FS /  95 VM

A stunning wine for this grape that is also rather easy to understand. The Reine Claude plum and peppery nose is complex, but already charming. As exciting as the simultaneously creamy and succulent mid-palate is, what makes this medium- to full-bodied gruner veltliner really stand out is the extremely long, crushed rock finish. Drink or hold.—James Suckling

Light golden yellow, silver reflections. Spicy, notes of white apple, subtle herbal spice. Complex, full bodied, elegant texture, ripe stone fruit, fine, well-integrated acidity, good persistency, mineral and salty finish, good ageing potential for many years.--Peter Moser, Fallstaff

The 2022 Grüner Veltliner Smaragd Hochrain is sourced from vines on two different soils within the vineyard—slightly less weathered paragneiss, so vines are less able to penetrate, and deep loess. The palate homes in on savoriness on a fluid, smooth and absolutely streamlined body that brims with direction and a bright lemon streak. Also quite linear, this possesses gentle, salty length. (Bonedry) —Anne Kreibiehl MW, Vinous Media