2016 Weingut Neumeister 'Steirische Klassik' Sauvignon Blanc

Region: Vulkanland < Austria

Grapes: Sauvignon Blanc

Vineyard/cellar stats: Organic certified, biodynamic practicing; chalky, olcanic soils; 18 hours of skin contact with fermentation and maturation in stainless steel; bottled unfined/unfiltered with minimal So2; 12.5% ABV

Winemaker: Christoph Neumeister

Vulkanland Steiermark is located in the southeastern curve of Austria, close to the border of Slovenia and Hungary.  Nestled in the Styria region, Vulkanland (an untouched and mostly unknown viticulture area), is a region focused on white, slightly aromatic varietals that thrive in the deep and various volcanic soils.  

Christoph Neumeister is the third generation to run this organic estate in the Styrian Volcano Country, where the family works its organic (never touched by a chemical) vineyards along with a quaint restaurant and hotel (we want to visit!).  Here, the growing season is insanely short. It is not uncommon for snow to be on the ground in April, which sets the wines apart from your average new world Savvy B.  But, once the snow is gone the sun comes out in full force and ripens the grapes fully in a short amount of time – the result is a more refined, less burly Sauvignon Blanc that speaks of place. 

Like Christoph's 'Steirische Klassick' SB here, which is a true powerhouse – off the charts aromatic, thanks to 18 hours on the skins.  On the palate you get full throttle apricot, tropical fruit and rocky minerals, matched by a piercing acidity that leads to a long finish.  This is Sauvignon Blanc that truly serves as a conduit for the alpine terroir and volcanic soil of the area.  Pair with your first spring picnic, because it will sing with cold vegetable salads, cheese or a seasonal quiche.