2015 Sonoma Mountain "Steiner Vineyard" Grüner Veltliner
100% Grüner Veltliner
It could be that the vines are getting older. It could be that our winemaking is improving. Heck, it could even be some of both! Whatever the reason, our Grüner Veltliner from Sonoma County’s only vineyard of the variety continues to improve with each vintage. Unlike past years, our two blocks ripened at the same pace so they were both picked on September 1st at 3 AM. (Picking at night ensures the fruit arrives early and cold to the winery, a good thing for wine quality.) Whole cluster pressed, the wine fermented very slowly in stainless steel for two months before finishing completely dry. As usual, no oak and no malolactic fermentation. Fined only with bentonite so suitable for vegans.
Tasting Note:
Medium-light to medium straw-yellow. Gorgeous, head-turning aromas of white grapefruit, acacia, and lime. As someone who drinks a lot of Austrian Grüner, I’m amazed (and thrilled!) with how classic this smells. Medium-bodied with flavors of grapefruit, lime, honeydew melon, and just a soupon of honey. An Austrian Grüner of this quality would set you back at least $40 to $50, making this wine an absolute bargain. Enjoy this beauty from release through 2023. (MRO – 01/19/17)