2022 Wieninger, Chardonnay Grand Select, Austria

Sourced exclusively from Wieninger's two oldest and most prized Chardonnay vineyards on the Bisamberg, this Grand Select is a powerful yet precise expression of Vienna terroir. Fifty-year-old biodynamically farmed vines rooted in sandy loess over limestone yield fruit of exceptional concentration, which is matured for nearly two years in French oak before bottling. Aromas of flint, citrus, passion fruit, and white flowers unfold into a layered palate marked by fine mineral tension, subtle oak complexity, and remarkable persistence, creating a sophisticated Chardonnay built for long-term cellaring.

91-93 points, Vinous
"The 2022 Chardonnay Grand Select spent over a year in French oak barrels ranging between 228, 300, 500 and 600 liters, with about 35% new wood. The vines are around 40 years old and rooted in limestone. Vivid apricot, lemon oatmeal and cream unite on the expressive nose. The palate continues with this fruity-rich creaminess and luminous lemon intensity, adding a creamy texture and much concentration. That pervasive lemony vibe keeps everything smooth and linear, illuminating the yeasty, oaky and limestone notions. The 2022 is very well done, elegant and smooth. This sample is the final blend, now maturing on fine lees in stainless steel until bottling in September 2024. (Bone-dry)"