Domäne Wachau Grüner Veltliner Federspiel Terrassen

 Domäne Wachau is a large co-operative in Austria with vineyards rising from the Danube. Their Grüner Veltliner is their high volume, well priced standard wine.

The 2021 Domäne Wachau Grüner Veltliner Federspiel Terrassen opens with a pale green colour. The bouquet is pronounced with fruity pear notes.

On the palate, pear and green apple flavours deliver a slightly broad and fruity, yet dry mouthfeel. Apricot and fresh marzipan add interest. The wine is lively on the back palate with white peppery notes and pleasant acidity.

This is a versatile food wine, well suited to Asian food. It is made to drink now.

Score: 90/++

Mac Forbes Gruener Veltiner

Gruener Veltiner is becoming a much sought after variety. To date, very little is grown in Australia. The variety is native to Austria, where Mac Forbes has worked  since 2004. As a result, we see some of his Austrian Veltiner in Australia. The 2010 Mac Forbes Gruener Veltiner is a vibrant wine, tasting of pear, mild spices and minerality. It has quite a full mouthfeel, and the texture is very balanced.  The wine finishes dry and fresh. It is delicious.

This wine is well suited to a variety of foods, in particular salads and Thai/Vietnamese dishes. I would not cellar the wine to take advantage of its current vibrancy.

Score: 92/+++