Grüner Veltliner, also known as Weißgipfler, is Austria’s iconic white grape variety. Its genetic origin is traced back to a cross between Traminer and a historic variety discovered in Burgenland, whilst its current name became established in the second half of the nineteenth century, following centuries of various names. The mature leaf is medium to large, pentagonal or circular in shape, generally divided into five to seven lobes, with a moderately tomentose underside. The bunch is medium-sized, conical and has one or more wings, ranging from moderately compact to compact; the berries, which are round or oval, have a green-yellow skin, colourless flesh and a neutral flavour.
The variety is at its best in Lower Austria, particularly in the Weinviertel and the Danube valleys, as well as in the Wachau, Kamptal, Kremstal, Traisental and Wagram regions. It is also grown in Burgenland, Vienna and, with distinctive results, in the Isarco Valley in South Tyrol; it is also found in Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Croatia.
The wine displays bright yellow-green hues, with aromas of apple, citrus and aromatic herbs, accompanied by the characteristic spicy hint of white pepper. On the palate, it combines freshness, savouriness and structure, with a versatility that ranges from approachable styles to complex, long-lived versions capable of developing notes of bread, dried fruit and almonds.
