2023 Stift Göttweig Grüner Veltliner Ried Gottschelle 1ÖTW

Weingut Stift Göttweig is known as one of the oldest wineries in Austria. Founded as a Benedictine abbey in 1083 by Altmann of Passau (also known as Saint Altmann), the abbey has always played an important role in the development of wine production in the Wachau Valley. Stift Göttweig is situated amidst the rolling landscape on the south bank of the Danube, opposite the city of Krems, at 449 meters above sea level. Due to this location and the abbey, the winery is sometimes referred to as the Austrian Montecassino. The Benedictines were responsible for the administration and management until 1988, after which the property was leased until 2005. Since 2006, winemaker Fritz Miesbauer and his team have been reliving history at the Stift Göttweig estate.

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

The 2023 Grüner Veltliner Ried Gottschelle 1ÖTW is an elegant and layered wine from the Kremstal, sourced from an Erste Lage (1ÖTW) vineyard with loess-rich soils. The wine combines ripe white fruit with delicate spiciness (white pepper), lively acidity, and subtle minerality. These characteristics make it versatile at the table, particularly with dishes that require a balance between freshness, texture, and refinement.

1. Veal Wiener 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 cuts effortlessly through the fat of the fried breading and keeps the whole dish light and invigorating.

2. Green asparagus salad with egg and mustard and tarragon vinaigrette
The subtle bitterness of the asparagus, combined with spicy and slightly acidic notes in the vinaigrette, complements the spiciness and citrusy acidity of the wine perfectly.

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

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

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

6. Soft mold cheeses such as brie or camembert
The fresh acidity and spicy notes provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture and briny tones of the cheese, keeping the whole beautifully balanced.