Gruner Veltliner

Gruner Veltliner originated in Austria and has been found to be, through DNA analysis,  a natural crossing of Savagnin and an obscure Austrian grapevine, now almost extinct, named St Georgener-Rebe.  Through this relationship with Savagnin, Gruner is then related to the famed Pinot Noir of Burgundy.  In Europe, it is mostly planted in Austria, Hungary and Slovakia.  It recently started to expand to cooler new world wine regions.

Gruner is a very recent import to the Californian viticultural scene. Pioneers in the making of Gruner in California are the likes of Fiddlehead cellars in Santa Barbara.   It can be found also in vineyards in the Clarksburg AVA, Anderson Valley, Santa Cruz Mountains and Sonoma County

Mid-ripening grape variety, that can be high yielding if not controlled in the vineyard.  It produces small, yellowish-green berries

Gruner can be very versatile.  It is able to produce crisp, refreshing everyday drinking whites as well as some of the most complex, rich and  age-worthy whites in the world.  Californian Gruner does not offer yet the complexities of some of the best Austria examples.  However,  it is easy to find delicious citrusy and refreshing wines as well as more complex,  richer wines made partly through some oak fermentation. 

Gruner Veltliner made a splash on the world wine scene when during a blind tasting organized by Jancis Robinson some Austrian Gruners got better marks than the best chardonnays from Burgundy and California. 

  • Austrian Cuisine: Gruner Veltliner pairs exceptionally well with traditional Austrian dishes such as Wiener Schnitzel (breaded and fried veal cutlet), Schweinsbraten (roast pork), and various types of sausages. The wine's acidity and herbal undertones complement the rich flavors of these dishes.

  • Asian Cuisine: Gruner Veltliner can be a delightful companion to Asian dishes, particularly those with a touch of spice or herbal elements. It pairs well with sushi, sashimi, and Asian-inspired salads. Additionally, it complements dishes like Thai green curry, Vietnamese spring rolls, and Chinese stir-fries.

  • Seafood: The fresh and zesty nature of Gruner Veltliner makes it a fantastic choice for pairing with seafood. It goes well with lighter seafood options like grilled fish (trout, sea bass, or halibut), shrimp, scallops, and oysters. The wine's acidity helps to balance the richness of seafood while enhancing its flavors.

  • Great Recipe: Wiener Schnitzel