Weingut Emmerich Knoll Loibner Gruner Veltliner Federspiel, Wachau, Austria

2023 Weingut Emmerich Knoll Loibner Gruner Veltliner Federspiel, Wachau, Austria, offers an elegant introduction to one of Austria's most celebrated winegrowing families. Sourced from the alluvial soils surrounding the village of Loiben along the Danube, this expressive Grüner Veltliner captures the Wachau's distinctive balance of orchard fruit, savory spice, and mineral freshness. Classified as Federspiel, the region's classic medium-weight dry wine style, the 2023 vintage combines approachable richness with precision and remarkable versatility at the table.

Product Details:

• Grapes: 100% Grüner Veltliner
• Farming: Sustainable Austria certified
• Vineyard Source: Village-level vineyard parcels around Loiben, below the terraced slopes
• Soil: Alluvial deposits, sand, gravel, and sediment
• Aging: Approximately 6 months in stainless steel, according to Falstaff
• Total Acidity: 4.8 g/L
• Residual Sugar: 1.1 g/L
• ABV: 12%
• Closure: Natural cork
• Classification: Federspiel, dry white wine
• Owners: Emmerich H. Knoll and August Knoll
• Winemaker: Emmerich H. Knoll Jr.
• Vineyard Manager: August Knoll

Sensory Description:

Pale yellow-green with delicate silver reflections, opening with aromas of ripe pear, yellow apple, white stone fruit, and meadow herbs. Subtle blossom honey and hints of pineapple add aromatic depth. The palate is juicy and finely textured, with orchard fruit, gentle herbal spice, and well-integrated acidity. A touch of papaya and savory minerality emerges toward the finish, followed by a persistent, lightly saline character. Balanced and expressive, this Grüner Veltliner combines generous fruit with the freshness and restraint characteristic of the Wachau.

Awards & Accolades:

• Score: 92 Points, Falstaff, Peter Moser, June 2024

Producer’s Background:

The Knoll family's winemaking heritage in Unterloiben dates to 1825, making Weingut Emmerich Knoll one of the Wachau's longstanding family estates. Under Emmerich Knoll Sr., the winery helped establish the international reputation of the region's Grüner Veltliner and Riesling. Today, brothers Emmerich H. Knoll Jr. and August Knoll oversee the cellar and vineyards, respectively, continuing the family's emphasis on distinctive vineyard expression and careful maturation. The winery's unmistakable label depicts Saint Urban, the patron saint of winegrowers, an image that has adorned Knoll bottles since the early 1960s. The family's wines remain closely associated with the Wachau's celebrated Federspiel and Smaragd traditions.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve chilled at approximately 48–50°F (9–10°C) in a medium-sized white wine glass to highlight its orchard fruit, herbal complexity, and mineral freshness. A versatile companion to grilled freshwater fish, roasted chicken, pork schnitzel, asparagus, and lightly seasoned vegetables. For a traditional Austrian pairing, enjoy alongside Wiener Schnitzel or a platter of cured meats, cheeses, and fresh bread. The 2023 vintage is drinking well now and offers further short-term aging potential under proper cellar conditions.