For the first time we have pressed an Eiswein from Muscat grapes. Normally, grapes from Grüner Veltliner come to such honors in the Kremstal, simply because it is the most common grape variety. Why did we try it with the Gelber Muskateller? Because, on the one hand, we have a long Muskateller tradition at Vorspannhof Mayr, and on the other hand, the variety is one of the most aromatic grapes and its beautiful acid structure makes it ideal for an Eiswein.
Harvested in the Ried Frechau
After two unsuccessful attempts, which had to be canceled because of too high temperatures, we were finally able to harvest our Muskateller Eiswein in the early morning hours of 12 January 2022 at – 7°C. We left the grapes for it hanging in the Frechau vineyard. The vines here stand on multi-level loess deposits that can be up to 20 meters thick. Frechau is one of the oldest vineyards in the Krems Valley and is located next to the Kremser Sandgrube, but slopes a bit more to the east. The soils warm up quickly and well. The orientation provides a warm microclimate, with the nightly cooling during the ripening phase of the grapes in the fall having a strong impact.
A wine to enjoy and age
After harvesting, the grapes were pressed while still frozen and then fermented and aged in steel tanks. Our Muskateller Eiswein has a seductive grapey fruit on the nose with hints of passion fruit and lime. The wine is a real experience on the palate – a delicious rush of fruit with sturdy sweetness and accentuated acidity. Our advice: keep a bottle for a long time, the ice wine has enormous aging potential.
