Bottler: Nikolaihof Wachau, Nikolaigasse 3, 3512 Mautern / Austria
In the glass
Colour
Pale straw yellow with greenish reflections, clear and lively
Nose
Fresh green aromas of apple, citrus peel and white pepper, complemented by fine herbal spice and floral notes
Palate
Lightweight and crisp dry, with vibrant acidity, fine pepper spice and a clean, mineral finish
Character
Uncomplicated, fresh everyday wine with varietal spice – straightforward, direct and easy-drinking
Pairing
Wiener Schnitzel, asparagus with hollandaise sauce, light salads and starters
Notes
Vinified by the renowned biodynamic pioneer Nikolaihof in the Wachau; "Zwickl" stands for a natural, unadorned style – unfiltered and authentic in character
Tasting note
Character
The Zwickl Grüner Veltliner from Nikolaihof is not a wine that demands attention – it earns it quietly and naturally. With 12.5% alcohol and vinified completely dry, it embodies that unpretentious, approachable style that makes Grüner Veltliner the soul of Austrian wine culture. An everyday wine that is never ordinary.
Terroir & Origin
The Nikolaihof in Mautern an der Donau is one of Austria’s oldest wine estates and has been committed to biodynamic viticulture for decades – one of the pioneers of this philosophy in the Wachau. The Wachau, this narrow rocky valley shaped by the Danube between Melk and Krems, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Central Europe’s most significant wine regions. Primary rock soils of gneiss and mica schist, steep terraced vineyards and the continental microclimate with cool nights create wines of unmistakable minerality and freshness.
Grape variety & Vinification
The Grüner Veltliner is at home in the Wachau like nowhere else. As a Zwickl – a traditional Austrian term for a light, early-ripening and uncomplicated wine – it is deliberately vinified in an approachable, lively style. The peppery spice typical of the variety, combined with fine herbal notes and vibrant acidity, emerges here in a fresh, immediate form. The 2024 vintage should emphasise the natural lightness of this style. The biodynamic management of Nikolaihof lends even the estate’s simplest wine a character and integrity you can taste.
Food Pairing Suggestions
An ideal companion to Austrian cuisine: Wiener Schnitzel, Zwiebelrostbraten or simple Liptauer bread are classic partners. It also harmonises beautifully with grilled fish, asparagus, goat’s cheese or a summery Brettljause. A wine best enjoyed young and well-chilled – preferably outdoors, with good conversation.
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