# Exceptional by Asda Grüner Veltliner (2024)

- **Producer:** Asda
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Grüner Veltliner
- **Region:** Niederösterreich, Austria
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €9
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now
- **Serving temperature:** 8–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** apple, pear, peach, lemon, grapefruit, white pepper, blossom, fennel

## About this wine

Part of Asda's premium 'Exceptional' range, this Grüner Veltliner showcases Austria's signature white grape variety. Sourced from selected vineyards in Austria's premier wine-growing regions, this wine is crafted to offer an authentic expression of the grape's classic characteristics. It represents a collaboration between Asda's wine sourcing team and established Austrian winemakers, aiming to bring high-quality, regionally expressive wines to everyday consumers at an accessible price point.

## Interesting facts

- Grüner Veltliner is Austria's most widely planted grape variety, accounting for over 30% of the country's vineyards.
- The 'Exceptional' range by Asda is curated to highlight classic regional styles from around the world at great value.
- This wine's signature white pepper note comes from a natural compound called rotundone, also found in Syrah grapes.

## Food pairing

Grüner Veltliner's high acidity and signature white pepper spice make it incredibly food-friendly. It cuts beautifully through fried or fatty foods like Wiener Schnitzel, while its herbaceous notes complement green vegetables like asparagus, which are notoriously difficult to pair with wine. It also has enough body and spice to stand up to mild Asian dishes and fresh herbs.

## Wine making process

The grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness and gently pressed. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the fresh, primary fruit aromas and characteristic white pepper spice of the Grüner Veltliner grape. The wine is kept on its fine lees for a short period to add subtle texture and complexity before being filtered and bottled young to maintain its vibrant, crisp profile.