Kamptal, one of Austria's most celebrated wine regions, is home to some of the country's finest Grüner Veltliners.
Known for its high-altitude vineyards and diverse terroir, the region’s commitment to crafting world-class Grüner Veltliner is evident in every bottle.
The 2023 vintage has delivered a remarkable array of wines, showcasing the precision, structure, and terroir-driven elegance Kamptal is celebrated for. With its combination of loess, gravel, and red sandstone soils, along with the region's distinct microclimates, Kamptal’s wines offer a profound sense of place. Since the introduction of the Kamptal DAC (Districtus Austriae Controllatus) in 2008, the region has cemented its reputation for producing top-quality Grüner Veltliners and Rieslings, with a focus on dry, mineral-driven expressions.
Here are VinoVistara’s Top 5 Grüner Veltliners from Kamptal 2023 Vintage—wines that not only represent the region’s exceptional winemaking but also the unique flavors of each vineyard site.
1. Weingut Steininger Grüner Veltliner Ried Kittmannsberg Kamptal DAC Reserve 1ÖTW 2022
This Grüner Veltliner from Kittmannsberg offers delicate aromas of orange zest, subtle mango, and yellow apple, complemented by herbal nuances and a mineral touch. On the palate, it is juicy and elegant, with a fine fruit sweetness and well-integrated acidity. Notes of blossom honey and white nougat add complexity, reflecting the wine’s well-developed character. A refined, balanced expression of Kamptal’s terroir, with both freshness and depth.
2. Weingut Schloss Gobelsburg Grüner Veltliner Ried Lamm 1ÖTW
It presents a vibrant bouquet of ripe yellow tropical fruits, with nuances of mango and orange, complemented by delicate blossom honey. The wine reveals mineral and spicy undertones that add depth to its multifaceted character. On the palate, it is complex, juicy, and powerful, with a finesse-rich acidity that balances the wine’s fullness. A touch of white pepper lingers on the finish, leading into a spicy-salty aftertaste.
3. Weingut Allram Grüner Veltliner Ried Renner 1ÖTW
The Grüner Veltliner from Renner impresses with its remarkable spiciness and mineral character. While it takes time to fully develop, the wait is well worth it. The nose is dominated by dark fruits, pepper, and intense spiciness, with hints of grapefruit adding brightness. This interplay of light and dark aromas continues on the palate, where lively citrus notes merge with deep minerality and a touch of exoticism. The wine’s dense, powerful body is supported by a vibrant acidity, delivering richness and a long, memorable finish. A complex and structured wine with great aging potential.
4. Weingut Eichinger Grüner Veltliner Ried Gaisberg 1ÖTW
This Grüner Veltliner reveals fine yellow apple fruit, complemented by a hint of mango and blossom honey, with a touch of fresh orange zest. On the palate, it is juicy and elegant, with delicate spice and nuances of apricot. The wine’s vibrant acidity and salty finish lead into a lingering note of lime, creating a powerful, deeply spicy character that carries through to the finale. A true sensual pleasure, this top-class Grüner Veltliner exemplifies the finest qualities of Kamptal’s terroir.
5. Weingut Hirsh Grüner Veltliner Ried Grub 1ÖTW
Hirsh’s Grüner Veltliner offers delicate notes of orange zest, subtle mango fruit, and yellow apple, complemented by hints of herbs and a mineral touch. On the palate, it is juicy and elegant, with a fine fruit sweetness and a subtle acid structure. Nuances of blossom honey and white nougat add depth, showcasing a wine that is already well-developed and balanced. A refined expression of Kamptal's terroir, offering both freshness and complexity.
The Excellence of Kamptal
Kamptal's Grüner Veltliners are among the finest examples of Austrian winemaking, and the 2023 vintage is no exception. From the structured elegance of Steininger’s Kittmannsberg to the complex minerality of Hirsh’s Grub, each of these wines showcases the unique characteristics of their respective vineyards. With diverse soil types, microclimates, and precise winemaking, these five Grüner Veltliners are a true testament to Kamptal’s commitment to quality and innovation in the world of wine.
For wine lovers seeking to explore the essence of Kamptal’s Grüner Veltliner, these five wines offer an exceptional place to start. Each bottle is a journey through the region’s terroir, offering a glimpse into the artistry that defines this renowned wine-growing area.