Loimer, `Loiserberg` Kamptal Grüner Veltliner 2017

PRODUCER

Fred Loimer owns 80 hectares around Langenlois, in the sunny Kamptal region of Lower Austria. Fred makes a range of wines from the excellent value 'Lois' and 'Lenz' to the superb, single varietal Rieslings and Grüner Veltliners. Unlike many Austrian producers who go for an overly rich and sweet style, Fred gets full ripeness in the vineyard yet ferments to dryness, managing to produce wines with lovely definition, zest and balance on the palate.

VINEYARDS

The Loiserberg vineyard lies 350-390 metres above sea level with a south-southeastern exposure and a continental climate. The soil is composed of mica slate. Vines are Lenz Moser and Guyot trained at a density of 2,500-5,000 per hectare. The age of the vines ranges from 5-50 years.

VINTAGE

The year started with a dry, frosty January however the following months until mid-April were very warm causing budbreak to occur earlier than normal. The first half of the year was marked by drought but long-awaited rain arrived at the end of July increasing soil water reserves. August and September were ideal for development and 2017 had the earliest harvest in history, beginning on the 29th of August.

VINIFICATION

Grapes were picked by hand into 20kg crates. Upon arrival at the winery they underwent 12 hours of maceration. Spontaneous fermentation with natural yeasts took place in used oak casks of 2,500 litre and 1,250 litre sizes, for four to eight weeks at 20-24°C. 50% of the wine was aged in used oak and acacia barrels on its gross lees for four months, and the remaining 50% was aged in stainless steel tanks on its fine lees for a further four months before bottling at the end of August 2018.

TASTING NOTES

Attractive ripe green apple and pear aromas are supported by hints of exotic dragonfruit and lychee. The palate has a fresh acid structure and liveliness, with green apple flavours, purity of fruit and a spicy nuances of ginger and nutmeg.