Saint Clair Grüner Veltliner 2011

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A commercial style of Grüner, if that is even possible. I think Saint Clair are playing their winemaking safe (even though it’s fermented in old oak and left on lees). At 14% alcohol, my feeling is that it was picked late (deliberately?) and fermented until mostly dry. It’s commendable to see a large winery like Saint Clair producing a wine such as this.

Loads of fruit – pawpaw, apple, peach, and oddly, a bit of grassiness. There’s a whisper of spice; mainly white pepper, though it’d be easy to miss if tasted blind. Nice texture of peach flesh, though not much acidity to clean it all up. Structurally, a bit bloated.

If you’re familiar with the grape, it’s hard to recommend, but if not, it’s the true gateway Grüner. Would be really good with brie or most Indian food. Give it to Sauv Blanc drinkers. You’ll be happy and so will they.

Average – Good

Closure: Screwcap

Source: Sample

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