This Austrian white caught my attention at the Asda Spring 2025 press tasting. It stood out immediately in a strong line-up and I was keen to take a closer look before it hits the shelves. It’s already just picked up a Bronze at the IWSC and it’s easy to see why.
Made by Markus Huber in Niederösterreich, this is a 2024 vintage at 11.5% ABV, using 100% Grüner Veltliner, Austria’s flagship grape.
Grüner Veltliner often shows a balance of stone fruit character with a lively, spicy streak and this bottle delivers exactly that. There’s a lovely suggestion of ripe pear and a hint of mandarin in the scent. On the tongue, it shows surprising depth. It’s dry, but there’s an intensity to the flavour that brings peach, guava and a subtle tropical edge, followed by a gentle peppery lift at the finish. The texture is remarkably full, enough weight to stand up to most food, but I found it equally enjoyable on its own. There’s a boldness here that makes it a good bridge for red wine drinkers who usually find white too timid.
It reminds me slightly of Gewürztraminer in terms of its suitability for food, I can see this working brilliantly with Asian dishes, particularly anything with a bit of spice. It’s also one of those rare whites that still works even when very warm!
Considering Markus Huber’s own-label Grüner Veltliners often sell for £30 to £40, this Asda release is a genuine bargain, expected to retail at just £8.12. A wine with character, presence and serious value.
