Country: Austria
Region: Weinviertel
Style: Backpfeifengesicht Wein

Grüner Veltliner is a dry white wine that grows almost exclusively in Austria and is a startlingly great alternative to Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio due to its bright citrus notes, herbaceousness, energetic character, and ability to pair with a wide range of foods. Better yet, we’ve seen Grüners befuddle many a sommelier when blind tasting wines. 

Until the 50s, Grüner was just some backwater Austrian swill that was indiscriminately quaffed by red nosed Austrian hooligans wearing Lederhosen who would roam the cobbled streets of small towns wreaking havoc. Lenz Moser saved this grape from ignominy when he implemented a Hochkultur (vine training) system after WWII which eventually brought out the best in this grape. It catapulted into widespread popularity where it has been part of the zeitgeist of Austria for over 70 years.