Markus Huber Zwirch Gruner Veltliner Erste OTW Lage 2021

Region and Vineyards

The Traisental DAC, one of Austria’s smallest yet most dynamic wine regions, is known for its exceptional white wines, particularly Grüner Veltliner. Located near the Danube River, the region’s cool climate, paired with its diverse soils, provides ideal growing conditions for producing wines with precision, vibrant acidity, and pronounced minerality.

The Zwirch vineyard, a sheltered basin at high altitude, benefits from unique geological formations. The bedrock is a coarse calcareous conglomerate from the Hollenburg-Karlstetten Formation, mostly covered by calcareous loess and loam. These nutrient-poor soils force the vines to dig deep, concentrating their energy into producing grapes of exceptional character. The vineyard’s natural protection from winds creates a microclimate that allows slow ripening, ensuring complexity and balance in the fruit.

Winemaking

The Grüner Veltliner grapes used for Zwirch were meticulously selected at optimal ripeness to capture the essence of this exceptional vineyard. After harvesting, the grapes underwent gentle crushing, followed by six hours of skin contact, allowing for enhanced aromatic extraction and structure. The must was then pressed and fermented in 100% traditional acacia wood casks, a technique that preserves the wine’s purity while adding subtle textural complexity.

Aging on lees for eight months, with regular bâtonnage, added richness and depth to the wine. This meticulous approach ensured the development of a creamy mouthfeel while maintaining the vibrant acidity and minerality that define the Zwirch vineyard. The result is a wine of remarkable balance, offering both power and elegance.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Light yellow-green with silver reflections.
• Aroma: Notes of tropical fruits such as pineapple and papaya, intertwined with delicate citrus blossoms and a distinct mineral touch.
• Palate: Substantial and structured, with a fine extract sweetness, white fruit flavors, and a finish rich in finesse.

Did You Know?

The Zwirch vineyard is one of Markus Huber’s most prized sites, offering a unique interplay of altitude, sheltered conditions, and ancient soils. Its protected microclimate allows for extended ripening periods, resulting in wines of exceptional complexity and aging potential.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Thai Green Curry: Complements the wine’s tropical fruit notes and acidity while balancing the dish’s spice.
• Roast Pork Belly with Apple Glaze: Enhances the richness and pairs beautifully with the wine’s minerality.
• Seafood Risotto: Highlights the creamy texture and fresh citrus flavors.
• Aged Gruyère: The wine’s structure and finesse elevate the nutty and savory characteristics 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.