2011 Hillinger First Hill White; Burgenland, Austria

Leo Hillinger’s methods are marked by a deep respect for the grape, the particularities of the terroir and its climatic conditions. His wines are convincing through their fullness and gentleness which mirror the characteristic nature of the land from which they originate.

“I do not want an interchangeable fashionable wine, rather I want to produce a truly Austrian, if not Burgenlandian top-quality wine,” says Hillinger. Moreover, “Making wine is for me a source of happiness. It combines hobby with vocation. I cannot imagine anything more beautiful.”

“When the grape is excellent, then one has much less to do in the cellar. From years of experience and much-experimenting, I know that the fruit needs to be perfect and bottled without alteration.” Try this 2011 and you will see what he means!

There are a lot of firsts for this wine. First time for this unique blend. First time the wine has been offered in the US, and first time in Asheville. First wine to be released from the Leo Hillinger Winery from the very promising 2011 vintage. First time we are offering this wine for sale with sufficient quantity so not to disappoint.

A three grape blend that caught our attention last year and sold out quicker than you can say Grüner Veltliner, much to the dismay of its fans, is back for its encore. We are delighted to offer the last of this beauty, shipped directly from the winery’s cellar, for sale now. This refreshing wine exhibits scents of ripe pears, herbs, flowers, and passion fruit on the nose. The palate shows lots of ripe, medium-bodied fruit and a dry, crisp, fruit- driven  finish. 70% Sauvignon Blanc ensures this will be lively on the palate, the 20% Welschriesling adds floral/herbal notes and the 10% Grüner Veltliner provides the Austrian signature with a subtle peppery quality that makes its appearance on the lengthy,  fruit-driven finish. This is very, very drinkable so do not miss it! Perfect with fresh asparagus, fin or shellfish, spicy Asian cuisine, delicious with fresh spring salads/goat cheese, and perfect as an aperitif with friends.

Regular Price: $14.99 per bottle
AWM Special Price: $11.99 per bottle