2017 Zahel 'Orange T' Orangetraube

Price: $22
Region: Vienna < Austria
Grapes: Orangetraube
Vineyard/Cellar Stats: organic farming, fermented in stainless steel, bottled under screw cap with minimal So2; 12.5% ABV
Winemaker: Richard Zahel

Fun fact: Vienna is the only city in the world that has real wine production within its city limits! The 4th generation Zahal family estate cultivates 25 acres of organic vineyards throughout Vienna proper, a little bit in each of the city's 5 wine-growing zones. It’s current leader, Richard Zahel, joined the family business in 1989 after a brief stint as a race car driver. This is a bright, aromatic, zesty white, made entirely of the rare Orangetraube grape – it’s NOT an orange wine -- and is the only 100% Orangetraube wine out there (this grape is only ever used in blends). Like an Oompa Loompa, the grapes’ skin turns orange when ripe, hence the name. The orange theme carries over into the palate, where you taste mandarin, apricot and orange flowers, but the racy acidity keeps it refreshing and tight. An unusual and totally charming wine, kind of like dry Riesling meets fleshy Pinot Gris.  So good with Thanksgiving food!