Kamptal
Kamptal’s vineyards in Lower Austria lie around the river Kamp, running north-east from the Wachau, but the region is dominated by the dramatic hill of Heiligenstein, around which the regions finest vineyards are to be found.
Without the moderation of the Danube, this is a hotter, drier region. Riesling and Grüner Veltliner are still important, although other varieties, including red, make an appearance. The wines are fleshier but more accessible than those of the Wachau, but also manage to accentuate the spicy notes to be found in these varieties.
Recommended Producers:
Willi Bründlmayer was one of the first to make a name internationally, but his friend Michael Moosbrugger at Schloss Gobelsburg makes arguably the most complex wines of the region. Weingut Hiedler offers fine value for money.
Prices:
Bottle
£21.75
Bottle 12 x 75cl 8cs
Bottle
£27.75
Bottle 6 x 75cl 12cs
A blend of St Laurent, Zweigelt and Pinot Noir, this dry sparkling wine has aromas of red cherry and redcurrant. The red berry fruit on the palate is lively and cool, with crisp acidity and a fine mousse. A great summer apéritif.
Bottle
£27.75
Bottle 6 x 75cl 9cs
A blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, with a little Grüner Veltliner, this wine has biscuity autolytic notes on the nose, with lovely aromas of apple and lemon. The palate is dry, refreshing and mineral, with cool citrus and apple fruit concentration, a fine, silky mousse, and a lingering finish. The time on lees adds layers of complexity and texture.