Mixed Case – An Austrian Odyssey 2023

Tasting Notes

This exceptional case of mixed Austrian white wines is a great way to sample some very pleasing wines from a relatively unknown wine region. If you can get to Austria in the near future, please seek these wines out. If you can’t, just place an order with Small Winemakers now, and pretend you are sitting in an historic Viennese Heurigen!

Mixed Case – An Austrian Odyssey
$233.70 (Average $38.95 a bottle. Case of 6 bottles)

Wiener Gemischter Satz DAC 2023:
A true specialty of Vienna and Zahel in particular, the Wiener Gemischter Satz is a field blend of 6 different grape varieties (Chardonnay, Gruner Veltliner, Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer) harvested from the region’s best wine growing areas. It isn’t just a blend of 6 varietals independently finished and then blended. What makes this wine so unique is the grapes are grown, harvested and fermented together!

This wine is elaborated in stainless steel to maintain the freshness and aroma of the grapes. A light straw yellow in colour, the bouquet is alive with apricot, peach and pineapple notes along with a robust spicy character. The palate features well integrated acidity and a vibrant finish that makes it a perfect accompaniment to traditional Wiener Schnitzel and other fried food. It also pairs well with a wide variety of international dishes such as chicken curries or middle eastern cuisine. (12% alc. 1.3 gr/l RS)

Gelber Muskateller “Ried Kroissberg” 2023:
The Gelber Muskateller is an ancient grape variety from the muscat family that hails from Mediterranean region. There are many types of Muscat distinguished by the colour of their berries (in this case yellow – Gelber). It is known for producing lively, fragrant and spicy wines when handled properly.

Zahel’s Gelber Muskateller is hand harvested from the Kroissberg vineyard which is Vienna’s second highest. Expect an expressive Muscat nose that features aromas of dried elderflower, tangerine, orange blossom and peach. It is delicate and very juicy on the palate with a refreshing acidity. The moderate alcohol makes it a delicious aperitif. (11.5% alc. 3.5 gr/l RS)

Orange T 2023:
Produced from the native and rare Orangetraube grape that was historically found only in field blends and sweet wines. George Zahel selected the variety out of their Gemischter Satz in 1966 to create a unique wine. Zahel is the only Austrian winery making a varietal Orangetraube. The name reflects the orange colour of the grape at peak ripeness.

All grapes are sourced from estate-owned vines grown in Vienna’s Maurer vineyard. The juice receives 36 hours of skin contact before pressing. The wine spends 6 months on the lees in stainless steel tanks to add complexity. Intense aromas of peach and apricot fruit married to spicy notes and an elegant mineral tinge acidity. The palate is well balanced and fruity on the finish. Perfect with light seafood dishes or vegetarian options. Five to ten years of aging potential. (12.5% alc. 2.8 gr/l RS)