2006 Laurenz V. Friendly Grüner Veltliner
I had had this on my “I should try it” list for while and finally made it part of our lineup on New Year’s Eve. It turned out to be a fantastic surprise. I made a Thai feast – green papaya salad and a green curry with chicken. My usual match for Thai is either a Riesling or a juicy Gewürztraminer. After trying it, this may be my new go-to Thai food wine… and the way it pairs with food, it may just be my new go-to white wine period.
This and 2 other Grüners (the “Charming” and the “Singing”) come from the good folks at Laurenz V. As they say on their site, “Laurenz V focuses solely on the Austrian hallmark variety Grüner Veltliner.”… and they do it in a really approachable style.
I’ve had other Grüners that were tasty, but non-descript. This one leaps out of the glass with dry, yet juicy fruit. The nose is all citrus, honey and mineral-laced – like licking a stone that’s been dipped in honey and drenched with lemonade. A big sip gives up gorgeous honey, citrus, green apple and pineapple with a long, food-friendly and pleasantly tart finish.
This is a wine that makes a great sipper on its own or will be bloody tasty with any number of dishes you may whip up.
Give Grüner a go. You’ll be glad you did.
~$22 at Kitsilano Wine Cellars here in Vancouver.
