Description

The Gruner Veltliner grape is to Austria as Sauvignon Blanc is to NZ... the perfect location on the planet to grow it. A review in 2008 confirmed 17,151 hectares were planted in Austria, 1/3rd of their national grape plantings. Along the Danube in Wachau, Kremstal and Kamptal, it is co-planted with Riesling on terraces so steep they can barely hold soil. It has some similarities to Riesling with its citrus/stone fruit flavours and lithe acidity. Matt Thomson, winemaker, founder and co-owner of Blank Canvas with wife Sophie are about creating wines that challenge the mainstream but that are essentially about enjoyment. To quote them... "We believe regime should not trump sensory enjoyment, nor quality. Both these things are paramount to us." Via this Blank Canvas 2013 release, they have demonstrated that Gruner Veltliner has a genuine affinity with Marlborough's soils and climate. It's weighty and textured palate, stone fruit dominant flavours and mineral freshness, ensures it will broadly appeal to lovers of classy Chardonnay and almost certainly to Pinot Gris and Riesling drinkers.

Smells

5-years from vintage its developed rich honeyed and golden peach aromas to go with its classic citrus and subtle pepper notes.

Tastes

Creamy texturally with rich honey and stone fruits fleshed out on the edges by succulent Meyer lemon. Baking spices and subtle white pepper (classic Gruner flavours) add to the seduction of the palate, lithe natural acids and minerality ensure its generosity finishes with salivating freshness. Drinking stunningly at 5-years of age and set to drink beautifully for a further 5... enjoy as a delicious, rich, yet refreshing summer white and match with a wide range of poultry/white meats/seafoods and fresh summer fare.