Wachau Grüner Veltliner Federspiel Ried Kreuzberg

A prime vineyard on the south bank of the Danube River in Rossatz. Amphibolite rock and large temperature fluctuations mark the terroir of this site. Kreuzberg is a single vineyard on the southern bank of the Danube River in Rossatz, which faces east and west due to its semi-circular form. The climate and soil of Kreuzberg are characterized by cold air streams from the Dunkelsteiner forest. The terroir is distinguished by a diverse para gneiss complex, amphibolite rocks and cool fall winds with great differences between day and night temperatures. The wines of Kreuzberg are extremely complex and very elegant.

Winemaker notes

2022: The distinctive aromas of Chinese pear and white pepper, delicate notes of dried herbs and tropical fruits set this wine apart. The body is medium, with a mouth-watering acidity, beautifully balanced by a juicy yet spicy finish. This is a delicious and classic example of a Grüner Veltliner from the Wachau. The name Federspiel is derived from falconry which was a very popular leisure time activity among the nobility in medieval times. The falcon stands for the remarkable elegance of these dry white wines. Should be drunk well chilled and is a perfect accompaniment to traditional Austrian cuisine such as roasted kidneys or a roasted chicken and also to Mediterranean cuisine such as spaghetti alle vongole and branzino in a salt crust. This well-structured Federspiel also accompanies dishes from the Far Eastern cooking style such as Vietnamese Ca Kho To (braised and caramelized fish). Drink within the first three years after bottling for maximum freshness.

2022

James Suckling 90: Green pears, juniper berries, lemon pith and grapefruit here. Dry and pithy with that characteristic citrusy bitterness. Clean finish. Sustainable. Drink now. Screw cap.

Falstaff 92: Light yellow green colour with silver reflections. Delicate apricot and pineapple, candied orange zest, with a touch of herbal savouriness in the background. Juicy, elegant, pleasant notes of apples, fresh acidity, balanced and already approachable.

2024

James Suckling 91: I like the red-apple, nutmeg and almond-blossom aromas to this subtly floral white. It’s medium-bodied, crunchy and crisp on the palate, with a bright and refreshing finish. Drink now. Screw cap.

Vinous 93: The 2024 Grüner Veltliner Kreuzberg Federspiel comes from some north-facing aspects at altitude, close to the cooling Dunkelsteiner forest. This wine contains a portion of skin-fermented grapes, which adds texture. Fern, lichen and citrus lend a gorgeous woodland savor to the nose. The palate offers a lovely sense of pithiness that marries with zesty concentration and the yeast of the mid-palate. Lasting, cooling freshness sets this apart.

Falstaff 91: Light greenish yellow, silver reflections. Nuances of honeydew melon, yellow apple, hints of oranges and blossom honey, inviting bouquet. Lean, white apple, fresh structure, lime on the finish, a lively food wine.