Reviews & Ratings

2005 Franz Hirtzberger Gruner Veltliner "Smaragd - Rotes Tor"

Winery: Franz Hirtzberger

Vintage: 2005

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Smaragd - Rotes Tor"

Wine Category: Gruner Veltliner

Grape blend: Grüner Veltliner

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Wachau

State or country: Austria

Price: $46

Cases produced: unknown

KWG Score: 94 (based on 3 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Excellent (97.99-94)

Review date: November 25, 2006

Wine Review: You may need a translator to pronounce the name of this one but it's well worth the extra work. Austrian wine has been very misunderstood for several years because the bottle looks and people thinks it’s going to be sweet. This Gruner Veltliner (that’s the grape) has a very rich nose of pear and honeysuckle making you think sweetness, but when it’s in your mouth it finishes completely dry. The wine really coats your palate and clings to you with a flavorful, lengthy finish. Hirtzberger is off the beaten path but his wines will impress even the most skeptical Chardonnay lovers. Enjoy - Alex

Winemaker Notes: Not Available

Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell Gruner Veltliner.

Buy this wine in Eastern Massachusetts, for delivery to your home or office.