Grüner Veltliner, most commonly known as Grüner, normally produces dry white wines that are fantastic alternatives to Sauvignon Blanc. Mouth-watering and versatile, Grüner Veltliner can vary in style from light and zesty to rich and nutty. Known for its bright acidity and notes of yellow apple, pear, white pepper, herbs, and even flint, Grüner Veltliner is mouth-wateringly scrumptious. Food friendly and a perfect palate cleanser, Grüner pairs amazingly with your favorite kind of schnitzel, soft cheeses, kale salads, and sashimi. 

Austria produces most of the world’s Grüner Veltliner, with more than a third of their hectares dedicated to the grape, especially in lower Austria. While a smattering of other eastern European countries also grow Grüner Veltliner, it’s nowhere close to how much Austria does. Originally considered to be cousins, DNA profiling showed that Grüner Veltliner is not related to Roter Veltliner or Frühroter Veltliner. 

Looking to lose yourself in a bottle of wine? Here are some wines to try:

Schloss Gobelsburg Grüner Veltliner 2021

Lustig Grüner Veltliner 2020

Famile Bauer Barig Alte Reben 2020

Franz Etz Grüner Veltliner 2020

Grape Photo Courtesy of Austrian Wine Marketing Board