# Graben Gruner Veltliner (2022)

- **Producer:** Grabenwerkstatt
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Grüner Veltliner
- **Region:** Wachau, Austria
- **Style:** Natural
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** pear, lemon, black pepper, peach, green apple, grapefruit, pastry, biscuit, ginger, honey, nutmeg, almond

## About this wine

Graben Gruner Veltliner 2022 is produced by Grabenwerkstatt, a biodynamic winery established in 2014 by Franz Hofbauer and Michael Linke. Located in the Spitzer Graben, a cooler sub-region within Austria's Wachau, the winery focuses on expressing the unique terroir through meticulous vineyard work. They cultivate only Grüner Veltliner and Riesling, believing these varietals best capture the essence of their specific site. The Spitzer Graben is characterized by steep, terraced vineyards and primal rock soils, contributing to the distinct profile of their wines.

## Interesting facts

- Grabenwerkstatt exclusively cultivates Grüner Veltliner and Riesling.
- The winery is committed to biodynamic farming practices.
- Their wines are spontaneously fermented on native yeasts.
- Named 'Exceptional Winery of the Year' by Gault Millau in 2022.

## Food pairing

The wine's vibrant acidity and minerality cut through richness and fat, making it an excellent companion for dishes like Wiener Schnitzel and pork belly. Its subtle peppery notes complement spice, while its clean profile allows delicate flavors of fish and vegetables to shine.

## Wine making process

Graben Gruner Veltliner is made using spontaneous fermentation on native yeasts in steel tanks. The wine then remains on its lees until natural balance is achieved. No filtration or fining is employed. Aging takes place in steel tanks. The winery adheres to biodynamic farming practices, avoiding systemic plant protection and artificial fertilizers, relying instead on biodynamic preparations and minimal use of sulfur and copper. Manual labor is central to their vineyard management.