Sauvignon Blanc “Kalk & Kreide” Südsteiermark DAC 2022

The year 2022 starts dry until the end of May. Then it turns to warm and humid. By mid-July, a full forty rain showers are recorded. Foliage management and the resulting necessary aeration are a big factor in the vineyard work. Horn silica is spread at the end of August to motivate the ripening to finish. The shortest harvest ever lasted only from 12 to 24 September. Very good qualities were recorded with low yields.

The various Sauvignon Blanc plots are planted on coral limestone, limestone and loamy limestone marl. The age of the vines varies accordingly and ranges from 15 to 55 years.

Spontaneous fermentation was followed by maturation on the fine lees in both steel tanks and large wood.

Clear shining straw yellow with green reflexes

The nose seems incredibly clear and precise. It oscillates between yellow and green. Mirabelle, yellow plum and peach come to the fore, as do lime and prickly pear. The Sauvignon Blanc Kalk & Kreide from 2022 is underpinned by a great density of herbs. Lemon balm, verbena, lemon thyme and parsley dominate. Peppermint becomes clearer and more present with patience. A little lemongrass and coriander entice you into Far Eastern musings. Fennel and roasted coriander seeds take it to another level.

A hint of pistachio provides an exciting final touch.

On the palate, it is racy and clear. The green comes through aromatically in the form of freshly cut grass and wet wild herb garden. Never cheesy, never immature. Always appealing and animating. It is as clear as a mountain stream and perfectly balanced. With a fine, compact tannin, it is enormously appealing and mature on the palate. This gives it structure and character. The aromas can shimmy around this framework. Its acid structure is restrained, but pleasantly positive. It seems clear and definitely makes you want the next glass more from sip to sip.