2021 Stift Göttweig Grüner Veltliner Ried Gottschelle 1ÖTW

Weingut Stift Göttweig is known as one of the oldest wineries in Austria. As a Benedictine abbey, Stift Göttweig was founded in the year 1083 by Altmann of Passau (also called Saint Altmann). Since then, the abbey has always played an important role in the development of wine production in the Wachau Valley. Stift Göttweig is located in the rolling countryside on the southern bank of the Danube opposite the city of Krems at 449 meters above sea level. Because of this location and the abbey, the winery is also called the Austrian Montecassino. The Benedictines were responsible for the administration and management until 1988, after which the property was rented out until 2005. Since 2006, winegrower Fritz Miesbauer and his team have been reliving history on the Stift Göttweig estate.

The name Gottschelle probably refers to the word "goetschen" which is the local word for the sharp edge of a mountain ridge. The vineyard was first mentioned in the year 1341. The soil of the Ried Gottschelle consists of gravel, lime and loess deposits, which have a particularly positive effect on the Grüner Veltliner grapes that grow here. Weingut Stift Göttweig cultivates 3.69 hectares of old Grüner Veltliner between 15 and 35 years old in this vineyard. As soon as the grapes are perfectly ripe, they are selected and harvested completely by hand so that only the very best grapes of Ried Gottschelle end up as the special Stift Göttweig Grüner Veltliner Ried Gottschelle. As soon as the selection has taken place, the pressing and alcoholic fermentation on its lees begins, after which the wine is allowed to age for another 7 months in large wooden barrels.

The 2021 Grüner Veltliner Ried Gottschelle 1ÖTW is an elegant and layered wine from the Kremstal, originating from an Erste Lage (1ÖTW) vineyard with loess-rich soils. The wine combines ripe white fruit with fine spiciness (white pepper), lively acidity and a subtle minerality. These characteristics make it versatile at the table, especially with dishes that require a balance between freshness, texture and refinement.

1. Viennese veal schnitzel with potato salad
The soft, crispy texture of a classic schnitzel is beautifully complemented by the fresh acidity of the wine. The Grüner Veltliner effortlessly cuts through the fat of the fried breading, keeping it light and refreshing.

2. Green asparagus salad with egg and mustard and tarragon vinaigrette
The subtle bitters of asparagus, combined with spicy and slightly sour notes in the vinaigrette, perfectly complement the spiciness and citrus-like acidity of the wine.

3. Asian dishes with light spices, such as steamed dim sum or Thai chicken with lemongrass and coconut
Grüner Veltliner naturally has good tension and aromatic finesse, making it an excellent match for dishes with ginger, lime leaf and other fresh Asian flavours without being overpowering.

4. Risotto with mushrooms and fresh herbs
The creaminess of the risotto is beautifully balanced by the lively acidity, while the earthy mushroom flavours harmonise with the mineral undertones of the wine.

5. Grilled sea bass with fennel and lemon
The juicy structure of the fish and the aniseed freshness of fennel complement the elegance and citrus-driven aromas of this Grüner Veltliner. The wine enhances the delicate taste of the fish without dominating it.

6. Soft mold cheeses such as brie or camembert
The fresh acids and spicy notes provide a refreshing contrast with the creamy texture and salty notes of the cheese, keeping everything nicely balanced.