Nikolaihof 2013 Gruner Veltliner, Smaragd, Wachau, Austria

Nikolaihof is one of the oldest wine estates in Austria, dating back to the Roman Empire. The Saahs family has been at the helm of this iconic estate since the late 1800s and have always practiced organic farming. The vineyards have been cultivated with biodynamic principles since the ‘70s, and they even tend bee hives on the property.

This estate is beautiful as well as exemplifying the pinnacle of what this grape can achieve here in the Wachau: rich, layered, contemplative, and a texture of liquid silk make the quality and price apparent right away. The flavors that are coaxed out here just blow the mind: ginger snap, dried honey, chamomile, watercress, and golden delicious apples freshly cut and bursting with juice. Worth every penny! Pair with pork dishes, vegetable casseroles and terrines, goulash.

Note: Smaragd wines are the most coveted wines of the Wachau area of Austria. At a minimum of 12.5% alcohol, the wines are made from grapes at their highest level of ripeness and sugar concentration. The name 'smaragd' originates from an emerald-colored lizard that thrives in the vineyards of Wachau.