Austrian wine question for those in the know!!

`03 Franz Hirtzberger Rotes Tor Federspiel GV

Have a chance to pick some up, $29 Cdn. Only 2 cases and will go fast. Any imput will be welcome.[/i]

[Robin Garr]

`03 Franz Hirtzberger Rotes Tor Federspiel GV

Have a chance to pick some up, $29 Cdn. Only 2 cases and will go fast. Any imput will be welcome.[/i]

Bob, I don't know that particular wine or producer, but a couple of thoughts: <I>Federspiel</I> is the Winea Wachau's medium-weight designation for Wachau GV, lighter than <i>Smaragd</i>, weightier than <I>Steinfeder</I>. Some authorities liken it to German <I>Kabinett</I> in terms of must weight, but that's a little misleading since GV is almost always dry.

I'd also wonder how the hot summer of '03 affected Austria and whether untypical ripeness is an issue, but can't cite chapter and verse.

Bottom line, over $20 US for a <I>Federspiel</i> from a possibly iffy vintage sounds a little spendy. But I hope someone with actual tasting experience of this specific wine will step up to the plate.

`03 Franz Hirtzberger Rotes Tor Federspiel GV

Top producer, good terroir, lousy year (in general), under 12% alcohol.
I have not tasted it.
Best, Jim

Not really a good example of what Hirtzberger can do with GV. Look for the 2005 which has just been released. The price is not all that great on the 03 either.

Like others, Bob, I would pass. I tasted this wine but didn't find anything home. Decided not to write a note, but to try some other vintages first. 2005? -- on order, and I'll revert if I like it better.

Like others, Bob, I would pass. I tasted this wine but didn't find anything home. Decided not to write a note, but to try some other vintages first. 2005? -- on order, and I'll revert if I like it better.

Well, all you guys were spot on!! This GV was one of the whites in the Blind Team Challenge tonite and it was nothing extra-ordinary.In fact, hardly any team got it! I thought (whisper) it was a sauv blanc from who-knows-where?
This one is not going anywhere.