Tucked away in the idyllic Kremstal (Krems Valley) of Lower Austria, lies the renowned Weingut Nigl, a haven for lovers of Grüner Veltliner and Riesling.
This family-owned estate has earned acclaim for its commitment to crafting wines of unparalleled finesse and elegance, renowned among connoisseurs and critics alike.
Rich with tales of nobility and tradition, this venerable estate bore witness to centuries of history before finding a new chapter in the hands of the Nigl family. In 1994, they embarked on a journey to breathe new life into the ancient walls, transforming them into a winery that would honor the estate's storied past while embracing a future of winemaking excellence.
About winery
At the heart of Nigl Winery's philosophy is a commitment to sustainability and allowing nature to take its course.
"This is what is means to be a wine-grower. To master the challenges of each vintage and to get the highest quality out of our vineyards," says Martin Nigl Jr.
The terraced vineyards that adorn the landscape between Senftenberg and Krems not only provide a stunning backdrop but also play a crucial role in shaping the flavors of their wines. Here, amidst the rolling hills, the grapes are cultivated with care, given ample time to mature, resulting in wines of exceptional quality.
The magic of Nigl wines lies in the marriage of experience and tradition with the distinctive soil conditions and climate of the Krems Valley. The region's special soil, composed of primary rock soils with granite, gneiss, mica schist, and amphibolite, imparts a unique minerality to the wines. Meanwhile, the dramatic temperature fluctuations during the ripening period, with cool nights following hot summer days, infuse the wines with a refreshing complexity.
Visitors to Nigl Winery are invited to indulge in a full sensory experience. At the Weingut Nigl hotel and restaurant, located at the foot of the Senftenberger Kirchenberg amidst the vineyards, guests can immerse themselves in the ambiance of centuries-old history while savoring regional delicacies paired with the winery's finest offerings. Whether it's a crisp Grüner Veltliner, an elegant Riesling, or a rich Sauvignon Blanc, there's something to delight every palate.
For those eager to delve deeper into the world of Nigl wines, a visit to the winery itself is a must. Here, amidst the vines that yield their bounty, guests can taste the wines straight from the source, gaining a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into each bottle. And for those unable to make the journey in person, the convenience of the online shop ensures that a favorite Nigl wine is never out of reach.
The vineyards of Nigl Winery are carefully tended to, with a meticulous approach to grape harvesting. The harvest, which often spans several weeks, involves multiple passes through each vineyard to select only the ripest grapes, ensuring that every bottle reflects the pinnacle of quality and flavor.
Wine Tasting
In a recent wine tasting session, we explored Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc from Nigl Winery. Two of the vintages are marked "1ÖTW", meaning the ÖTW, or Österreichische Traditionsweingüter (Austrian Traditional Winemakers) classification for the terroir-driven nuances that shape each wine, known as "Ried."
- Grüner Veltliner Ried Pellingen Privat 1ÖTW (2022) welcomed us with an enticing bouquet. The nose was alive with the essence of yellow fruits, notably crisp apple and succulent pear, intertwining with delicate tropical notes that hinted at a sun-drenched paradise. As the wine caressed our palates, it unveiled its true character with grace and finesse. The initial impression was one of sheer pleasure, as the wine enveloped the senses with a lively freshness that danced across the tongue. Vibrant and invigorating, it awakened the taste buds with a symphony of flavors that mirrored the aromas encountered on the nose.
- Riesling Ried Hochäcker 1ÖTW (2022): It captivates by its seductive aroma. Delicate yet profound, the scent enveloped us in a veil of elegance, offering whispers of ripe peach, succulent apricot, and juicy nectarine. On the palate, the vintage revealed its true character with a burst of energy, vitality and lively acidity. The wine exuded power and intensity, with high extracts lending a rich and luxurious texture, prolonged in a long aftertaste.
- Sauvignon Blanc (2023): Our senses were immediately captivated by an explosion of aromas, which unfolded like a tropical paradise in full bloom. Ripe mango, papaya, and passion fruit dominated the forefront, their sweet and succulent aromas intertwining with each inhalation. On the palate, the wine's vibrant acidity came to life. Even with, it maintained balance and a well-defined structure. Further exploration revealed layers of complexity, with subtle hints of citrus zest, herbs, and minerality enhancing the overall profile.
The tasting session provided a delightful exploration of various wine profiles, each offering unique characteristics and nuances. It was a rewarding experience to discern the aromatic complexities and palate sensations of each vintage of the house!
In conclusion
The wines from Nigl Winery reflect a dedication to quality and a deep connection to their terroir. Each bottle in their portfolio embodies the unique characteristics of the Kremstal region, boasting vibrant flavors and nuanced aromas.
With Grüner Veltliner and Riesling as their flagship varietals, Nigl Winery continues to captivate wine enthusiasts with their commitment to quality, sustainability, and the timeless allure of the vine.