1999 FX Pichler Gruner Veltliner Smaragd M

F.X. Pichler stands for Franz Xaver Pichler, the man currently in charge of the Pichler’s 30-acre winery in Durnstein, Austria. Founded in the late 19th century, the estate is considered by many in the wine industry to be the single most important reason that Gruner Veltliner is now relatively well-known and enjoyed by wine connoisseurs outside of Austria. The vineyards are planted to 50% Gruner Veltliner, 47% Riesling and 3% Sauvignon Blanc. Robert M. Parker Jr. has called the estate “the Romanee-Conti or Chateau Latour of Austria” and the estate's Veltliner and Rieslings earn high compliments from critics. Franz’ son Lucas, who represents the sixth generation of the family’s ownership of the estate, is now in charge of vinification. About 75,000 bottles are produced annually.

This white grape is widely grown in Austria, Czech Republic and Slovakia. As a wine, it is food friendly and has beaten top Chardonnays in blind tastings. It compares to a white Burgundy in richness and texture, and offers an exotic alternative to Sauvignon Blanc.