Markus Huber Berg Gruner Veltliner Erste OTW Lage 2021

Region and Vineyards

The Berg vineyard, part of the prestigious Erste Lage classification, is situated in the Traisental DAC. The site features steep terraces with a gradient exceeding 25%, allowing optimal sunlight exposure and natural drainage. The soils are composed of calcareous conglomerates from the ancient Hollenburg-Karlstetten Formation, covered by a thin layer of humus. These soils, rich in minerals but poor in organic matter, stress the vines, yielding concentrated and flavorful fruit.

Located in a region known for its cool climate and significant diurnal temperature variations, the vineyard benefits from conditions that preserve acidity and develop nuanced aromatics, hallmarks of the Grüner Veltliner grape.

Winemaking

This vintage saw a long growing season with cool nights and warm days, producing grapes with exceptional balance and depth. Markus Huber’s careful vinification techniques included:

• Selective hand harvesting to ensure only the best fruit was used.
• 18 hours of skin contact to enhance aromatic intensity and texture.
• Fermentation and aging in 100% traditional acacia wood casks, which integrate subtle oak influence without overpowering the wine’s primary characteristics.
• Aging on lees with bâtonnage for 8 months, creating a creamy mouthfeel and adding layers of complexity.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep yellow with greenish highlights, displaying vibrant clarity.
• Aroma: Ripe pear and quince, layered with hints of honey, white pepper, and a touch of tobacco and herbal spice.
• Palate: Concentrated and richly textured, with flavors of orchard fruits and savory herbal nuances. The wine finishes with a robust minerality and lingering acidity, demonstrating elegance and power.

Did You Know?

The Hollenburg-Karlstetten Formation, which underpins the Berg vineyard, dates back millions of years. This unique terroir is a defining factor in the wine’s intense minerality and layered complexity, offering a true reflection of the region’s geological history.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Roasted Pork Belly: The wine’s acidity and texture balance the richness of the dish.
• Herb-Crusted Sea Bass: Complements the wine’s herbal notes and bright minerality.
• Thai Green Curry: Its robust structure and subtle spice pair perfectly with the dish’s aromatic complexity.
• Aged Goat Cheese: The creamy texture and minerality of the wine enhance the bold flavors of mature cheese.

History of Weingut Markus Huber

Markus Huber’s roots stretch back to 1648, making it one of Austria’s oldest family-run wineries. However, the estate’s modern renaissance began with Markus Huber, who took the helm in the early 2000s. Markus quickly transformed the family estate into a globally respected producer through his innovative vision and dedication to elevating the potential of the Traisental DAC.

Markus Huber's philosophy centers on crafting wines that express the authenticity of the region’s unique terroirs, using sustainable practices and minimal intervention. Under his leadership, the winery has won numerous awards and accolades, including being named Falstaff Winemaker of the Year and earning prestigious ratings from international critics like Wine Enthusiast and James Suckling.

Region and Vineyards

Situated in Austria’s Traisental DAC, Weingut Huber’s vineyards benefit from a unique terroir defined by calcareous conglomerates of the Hollenburg-Karlstetten Formation, topped with loess and clay. These soils are particularly suited to Grüner Veltliner and Riesling, imbuing the wines with exceptional mineral depth, vibrancy, and complexity.

The Traisental region, Austria’s smallest DAC, is characterized by a cool continental climate with significant diurnal temperature variation. This climate enhances aromatic precision and preserves the natural acidity that defines the wines of the region. Huber’s vineyards include Erste Lage (First Growth) sites such as Alte Setzen, Berg, and Zwirch, each contributing distinct nuances to his wines.

Wine Range of Markus Huber

Markus Huber specializes in single-vineyard wines that showcase the diversity of Traisental’s terroirs, including:

• Grüner Veltliner: The estate’s flagship grape, expressing both elegance and power, particularly in Erste Lage wines like Zwirch, Berg, and Alte Setzen.
• Riesling: Renowned for its precision and finesse, with hallmark examples from vineyards such as Berg.
• Regional Wines: Offering approachable yet terroir-driven wines that capture the essence of the Traisental DAC.
• Sparkling Wines: Crafted with traditional methods, these wines reflect Markus Huber’s commitment to innovation.

Huber’s wines consistently showcase balance, structure, and a harmonious interplay of fruit and minerality, earning a loyal following among wine lovers and critics alike.

Did You Know?

Markus Huber is a leader in sustainable viticulture, employing organic practices across its vineyards. Markus Huber is also a founding member of the ÖTW (Austrian Traditional Wineries), an organization dedicated to preserving and promoting Austria’s best vineyard sites.