Wine columnist Charlotte Kristensen has identified several Grüner Veltliner wines available in the UK for under £15, noting the grape's growing popularity and accessibility.
Kristensen described Grüner Veltliner as having the aromatic freshness of Sauvignon Blanc combined with the rounded texture of Chardonnay. She first encountered the wine in New York in 2018 and has found it to be a favorite among sommeliers.
The grape, Austria's signature varietal, is increasingly found in UK supermarkets. Kristensen suggested that while the price may be slightly higher than some alternatives, the quality and drinkability justify the cost.
Recommended Wines
Among the recommended bottles is a Grüner described as crisp with orchard fruit and ripe lemon, featuring a classic celery note. This wine is recommended for pairing with salads, grilled fish, and lighter summer dishes.
Another selection, made from 20-year-old vines, is characterized as a thirst-quenching wine that evokes the taste of a green apple – fresh, energetic, and 'seriously moreish.'
From the producer Domäne Wachau, a recommended white wine offers juicy citrus flavors with hints of dill and a distinct slatey minerality, presented as a benchmark for quality.
Additionally, an 'impressive canned Grüner' was highlighted for its zesty fruit and fresh herb notes, deemed suitable for picnics, particularly with smoked salmon sandwiches.