WineLovers Discussion Group

Domaine Viret 2000 Côtes-du-Rhône-Villages Saint-Maurice Cosmic , $12
This starts out with an effusive nose with lots of herbs, especially oregano, a little lavendar, dark earth and smoke. On the palate, there is a complex mix of red, blue and black fruits with lots of dark earth and herbs. Rich, medium- to full-bodied, but very smooth with decent acidity. Superb. Excellent match with lentil/rice soup. Importer: Louis/Dressner

Hiedler 2004 Grüner Veltliner Löss, $12
Delightful nose of white flowers and fruits (peach, perhaps?) accented by spice, peas and a little white pepper. On the palate, there is peach and citrus fruit, with lots of rocky minerality, some spice and white pepper. On the finish, there is a prickly sensation, a bit like spritz but it adds to the mineral/peppery sensation. Nice bright acidity. Outstanding match with Chinese food. Two days later, it’s as good or better. The fruit is more citrusy and less peachy, and it seems more minerally, spicy and structured. Same outstanding food match. Importer: Michael Skurnik Wines, a Terry Theise Selection.

Nice notes. I will have to try some GruVe when Tasting 101 gets to Austrian wines. Have had a couple nice glasses of GruVe in restaurants but don't usually purchase it.

Thanks. I don't have much experience with the grape, but I really liked this and will buy more if I get a chance.

Bruce K wrote:Thanks. I don't have much experience with the grape, but I really liked this and will buy more if I get a chance.

Not to butter you up or anything, but your TN was so smack-dab on the style for GV, I just figured you were a serious GrunerFanatic. Great note ... and just reading it makes me want to go out and score some.

I just figured you were a serious GrunerFanatic.

Not yet, but I could see myself becoming one. I was always intrigued by the "rainwater over rocks" description you and others have given GruVees, but this is the first bottle I've had that really hit that note right on the money. And I was especially impressed by how well it went with spicy Chinese food, even hot & sour soup and ma po tofu.

Bruce K wrote:"rainwater over rocks" ... how well it went with spicy Chinese food, even hot & sour soup and ma po tofu.

Ah, you're a lost cause now! Welcome to the light!

Bruce K wrote:"rainwater over rocks"

Good notes! Just remember this: rocks rock; fruit sucks. Then you'll be fine

Otto

Bruce,
I haven't had the 2004, but sounds similar to 2002, which was also a great value in ready-to-drink and food friendly Gruner Veltliner with varietal character. I'll look for the 2004 based on your note. Thanks.
Charles

rocks rock; fruit sucks.

My feelings exactly.