1. Katharina Gessl "Hawara" Grüner Veltliner (shown below!)
- Producer: Katharina Gessl
- Region: Weinviertel, Austria
- Variety: 100% Grüner Veltliner
- Alcohol: 11.5%
Katharina Gessl, from Zellerndorf in Austria's Weinviertel region, manages a 20-hectare vineyard and 180 hectares of organic farmland. After studying International Wine Business and living in Germany, the Netherlands, and Vienna, Katharina returned to her roots and founded the Katharina Gessl winery in 2022. She took over selected vineyards from her family’s farm and produced her debut vintage. Her wines are characterized by a blend of playfulness and elegance, embodying a youthful and refined joy. Katharina's guiding principle, "S’Leben leben" (Live life), captures the essence of her approach to winemaking. Hawara wine is straightforward and elegant, presenting a genuine expression of its origins without any frills. It captivates the palate with a clear, unpretentious profile of melon, walnut, yellow apple, and delightful thyme. As it matures, it introduces notes of eucalyptus and a hint of vanilla. This wine pairs excellently with various dishes, making it not only a delightful drink but also a versatile companion for food lovers.
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2. Jan-Philipp Bleeke "Space Dream" Riesling (shown below!)
- Producer: Jan-Philipp Bleeke
- Region: Mosul, Germany
- Variety: 70% Riesling, 30% Müller-Thurgau
- Alcohol: 11%
This charming (very light) skin contact is my favorite of the bunch! So tropical, so easy-drinking, so delicious! Winemaker Jan-Philipp Bleeke grew up in East Westphalia, a region unsuited for winemaking. After various detours through Dortmund, Herford, Gütersloh, Bielefeld, Berlin, New Zealand, and Hamburg, he discovered his true passion for viticulture. Although he is a trained automotive salesman and holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing management, Jan-Philipp chose to pursue winemaking in Mosel. His decision was driven by the simple joy he finds in the craft, an escape from the corporate world where he felt out of place. "Space Dream" is a unique Riesling and Müller-Thurgau blend, perfect for a night under the stars. It has been aged for 19 months in old oak barrels and stainless steel tanks, and is distinguished by a fresh, fruity aroma that takes you on a cosmic journey. Bottled in April 2023, let this dreamy riesling take you on a celestial adventure! Serve chilled and enjoy with fried chicken, or your favorite cheese, charcuterie and Marcona almonds! It's the best!
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3. Weingut Fußer "Blanc de Noir" (shown below!)
- Producer: Weingut Fußer
- Region: Pfalz, Germany
- Variety: 100% Pinot Noir
- Alcohol: 12%
We tasted this one with our customers and it was the favorite pick of the day! Interesting, mineral-driven, silky and so precise. We love German wines and this one is so charming, made with love and care. Georg and Tatjana Fußer, from Niederkirchen in the Pfalz region, focus on biodynamic wine production, emphasizing quality Rieslings and other varietals since transitioning from grape farming in 2006. Their Blanc de Noir, crafted from Pinot Noir grapes in Deidesheim, Niederkirchen, and Ruppertsberg, focuses on the essentials. The wine's subtle apricot hue reflects the grapes' ripeness, and its depth is enhanced by the varied ages of the vines. Aromas of hibiscus and wild berries precede a palate of peppery spice and creamy white chocolate, balanced by well-integrated acidity for a lasting finish. Chill and serve with Spätzle with Gruyère and caramelized onions or fried chicken!
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4. Orbis Moderandi Pet Nat White (shown below!)
- Producer: Hunter Estate
- Region: Marlborough, New Zealand
- Variety: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
- Alcohol: 12.5%