On October 11th, the enchanting Loisium WeinWelt in Langenlois in Lower Austria hosted an exclusive pre-event for the upcoming Day of Sparkling Wine, set for October 22nd.
The "Walk & Sprudel Tour" was a perfect blend of education and indulgence, guided by renowned wine blogger Cornelia Becker, known to her followers as @corni.winelover, alongside Oliver Wolf, a celebrated expert in the world of wine.
A Sparkling Welcome and Immersive Cellar Experience
The afternoon began with a sparkling wine aperitif, setting the stage for what was to come—a deep dive into the rich sparkling wine culture of Langenlois, Austria's sparkling wine capital. The guided cellar tour, led by Oliver Wolf, offered attendees a rare, intimate glimpse into some of the finest sparkling wine producers in the region.
The tour took guests through the cellars of Steininger, Jurtschitsch, Hugl, Rosner, and Loimer, each winery offering a distinct expression of the region's terroir and winemaking philosophy. Attendees were treated to an immersive experience, tasting exquisite sparkling wines while learning about the intricate methods behind their production—from traditional bottle fermentation to the subtle art of dosage.
Sparkling Elegance: A Tasting Experience
I was genuinely impressed by the Weingut Steininger Blanc de Pinot Noir, which was just released two weeks ago. Its vibrant character and finesse truly stood out, making it a memorable experience. Additionally, the Weingut Jurtschitsch Blanc de Blancs and the Schloss Gobelsburg Vintage Grosse Reserve 2010 showcased exceptional complexity and elegance, with the latter particularly highlighting a refined texture and intricate flavor profile.
- Weingut Steininger, Blanc de Pinot Noir 2018 - a new release of the winery! presents a light golden yellow hue with silver reflections and a delicate, refined mousse. On the nose, it reveals a fine bouquet with nuances of white and yellow fruits, complemented by subtle notes of brioche and lime zest, adding an inviting complexity. On the palate, this wine is juicy and elegant, with a silky texture that glides effortlessly. Its acid structure, rich in finesse, enhances the overall harmony of flavors. The finish is long and persistent, showcasing a perfect balance of complexity and elegance.
- Weingut Jurtschitsch, Blanc de Blancs - a refined sparkling wine crafted from a harmonious blend of Grüner Veltliner, Weißburgunder, and Chardonnay. On the nose, delicate aromas of green apple, citrus zest, and hints of white flowers are framed by a subtle mineral undertone, reflecting the terroir's coolness. On the palate, it opens with vibrant acidity, leading into flavors of crisp pear, lemon, and a touch of brioche from its aging on the lees. The fine mousse provides structure, enhancing the wine's refreshing profile while maintaining finesse.
- Schloss Gobelsburg Winery, Vintage Grosse Reserve Extra Brut 2010 -a remarkable sparkling wine, crafted from a blend of Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, and Pinot Noir. After spending 12 months in barrel for the initial aging, it undergoes a secondary fermentation in bottle, followed by 10 years of resting on the yeast. On the nose, there’s a captivating blend of aromas, including white nougat, delicate notes of brioche, and rich ripe yellow tropical fruits. Subtle hints of papaya, candied lime, and a touch of blossom honey add layers of intrigue. The palate is equally complex, with juicy notes of nutty white apple and a fresh, zesty acidity. A distinctive mineral-salty edge weaves through the flavors, providing excellent structure and balance.
Flying Buffet by LOISIUM’s Culinary Talents
After three hours of exploration, the event continued with a "flying buffet" prepared by the LOISIUM Kitchen-Rockstars, where culinary creativity met sparkling wine pairings. The dishes were designed to complement the crispness, complexity, and effervescence of the wines tasted, creating a dynamic gastronomic experience.
A Perfect Afternoon at the WeinWelt Tasting Lounge
The day culminated in a relaxed, informal setting at the Loisium WeinWelt Tasting Lounge, where attendees could unwind, engage with fellow wine lovers, and savor the final sips of the wines introduced during the tour. Cornelia Becker and Oliver Wolf were on hand to share their insights and answer questions, creating a personalized experience for all involved.
This exclusive "Walk & Sprudel Tour" not only celebrated the sparkling wine heritage of Langenlois but also provided an unforgettable experience for everyone in attendance, setting the stage for the eagerly anticipated Day of Sparkling Wine on October 22nd. For wine enthusiasts and sparkling wine aficionados alike, it was an event that will undoubtedly be remembered for its elegance, expertise, and sparkling allure.