[WTN] Erich Machherndl 2006 Gruner Veltliner Smaragd

Having very much enjoyed by last dose of Gruner Veltliner from this producer, I was quite excited to find a "premium" version of the wine on sale in my local shop.

=====

Wine is very pale and has an odd smell: a mixture of citrus fruit and haylofts.

It's an equally odd wine - the first impression I got on drinking was not one of flavour, but one of smoothness and this proves to be an exceptionally well balanced and easy drinking wine. The flavours are there but they have no urgency or intensity about them and lurk under the surface of the wine waiting to be coaxed out. There's straw and pineapple in the main body of the wine, which passes into a long, clean finish of minerals and bitter herbs.

Bizarre. 4/5

=====

In honesty, whilst this was pleasant, I think I preferred the cheaper option from this producer.

Just give it two or three years in the cellar — and I do promise a stunning experience!

Just give it two or three years in the cellar — and I do promise a stunning experience!

Interesting. The retailer has this down as a wine to "drink now" - with no suggestion of cellaring it for any length of time at all.

I'm proud to say I assisted (as a go-between) in getting Macherndl imported to the US. Had a friend from Austria staying over, and she brought some Macherndl. I was impressed, and had a friend taste it. Subsequently the friend made contact, went over, sealed the deal, and brought it in.

I can also second Michael on the agining potential for Macherndl. The Smaragd gets softer, richer, silkier with a couple of years. Had a Federspiel that was an interesting combination of celery salt and buttercream, oddly enough; drank that right down.

FWIW, was told that Erich is a great guy too.

Just give it two or three years in the cellar — and I do promise a stunning experience!

Right on Michael. Anyone with just the basic knowledge of GV should know that most need a couple of years in the cellar.

Thats the way I see it with my Austria selections!