Markus Huber Berg Riesling Erste OTW Lage 2018

Region and Vineyards

The Berg vineyard, part of the Traisental DAC, is situated on an east-facing terraced slope with a gradient exceeding 25%, ensuring optimal sunlight exposure and drainage. The soils consist of a thin layer of humus over calcareous conglomerate from the Hollenburg-Karlstetten Formation, rich in limestone, which enhances the wine’s minerality and elegance.

The vintage benefited from a warm growing season with excellent conditions for ripening. This vintage produced grapes with concentrated flavors and balanced acidity, ideal for crafting high-quality Rieslings.

Winemaking

Grapes were carefully selected at peak physiological ripeness and underwent 12 hours of skin contact to extract aromatics and structure. Fermentation occurred in stainless steel tanks to retain purity and vibrancy. The wine was then aged on its lees for 8 months in traditional acacia wood barrels, adding depth and complexity to the palate.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Intense yellow with bright clarity.
• Aroma: Expressive aromas of ripe peach, complemented by subtle floral and mineral notes.
• Palate: Tightly woven structure with vibrant acidity, showcasing flavors of stone fruits and a long, elegant finish. The wine is marked by finesse and a crystalline minerality.

Did You Know?

The Hollenburg-Karlstetten Formation, underlying the Berg vineyard, dates back millions of years, contributing to the unique calcareous soils that define the wine’s mineral-driven profile.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Trout Meunière: The wine’s acidity cuts through the buttery richness of trout, enhancing its flavors.
• Salmon Sashimi: Its minerality and stone fruit notes complement the clean, fresh taste of raw salmon.
• Thai Green Curry: The wine’s finesse balances the spicy and aromatic profile of Thai cuisine.
• Aged Gouda: The Riesling’s vibrant acidity and fruit balance the nutty and creamy intensity of the 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.