Southern Oregon vintner Stephen Reustle began growing Grüner Veltliner in 2003 in his original Romancing Rock Vineyard, and he’s now up to 5 acres of the white Austrian grape when factoring in the 2008 planting of Prayer Rock Vineyard. This marks his second vintage of fermentation of Grüner in concrete, hence its name in honor of the traditional vase used during Roman times. That allows for a nose of sweet herbs and lemongrass with gooseberry, Golden Delicious apple, lime peel and baking spice. The drink is full, rich and delicious with flavors of orchard fruit and a pleasing dab of sweetness. On the way out, the combination of Key lime and Chinese five spice provide nice balance and complexity. Those who enjoy Riesling will especially appreciate this.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 62 cases
Alcohol: 13.5%
Subscribe to Thursday’s Wine of the Week newsletter
Leave a Reply