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2004 Franz Hirtzberger Grüner Veltliner Smaragd Rotes Tor

Removed from protected passive storage in a temperature controlled home; Purchased upon release; Consignor is original owner

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RATINGS

91Vinous / IWC

Pronounced green apple along with sweet exotic fruits and a floral component on the nose and in the mouth. A thick yet juicy wine with very good balance and flavor definition, as well as the elegance that's characteristic of this producer's wines. The streamlined palate ends with mineral and peppery notes.

91.2CellarTracker

90The Wine Advocate

...smells of grapefruit, toasted almonds, and cinnamon...medium-bodied, alluringly silken-textured example of Gruner Veltliner displays juicy pineapple fruit and a hint of beet root, along with a continuation of the almond and cinnamon themes. The finish is bright, subtly salty, and persistently juicy and spicy.

90Wine Spectator

Classic Grüner Veltliner aromas and flavors of grapefruit, lentil and hints of licorice and white pepper. It's focused by a vibrant acidity and has good weight and length. Long pepper and mineral aftertaste.

90Wine Enthusiast

Rather herbal and peppery on the nose, instantly marking it as Grüner. Honey and green apple flavors merge easily on the weighty, slightly oily palate, finishing long and peppery.

PRODUCER

Franz Hirtzberger

Weingut Franz Hirtzberger is in Austria’s Wachau valley. It was founded five generations ago by the Hirtzberger family and is today still run by a descendant of the founder also named Franz Hirtzberger. The estate makes Riesling, Veltliner, Pinot Blanc and other white wines. Robert M. Parker Jr. notes that the estate’s wines “possess cult status.”

TYPE

White Wine, Grüner Veltliner

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.

VINTAGE

2004 Franz Hirtzberger Grüner Veltliner Smaragd Rotes Tor