Today’s Story: Weingut Niklas
Weingut Niklas is a family owned and operated wine estate situated in the village of St. Nikolaus within the Alto Adige region of Northeastern Italy. Originally established in 1969, Weingut Niklas now encompasses three generations of passionate family winemaking and today the estate is under guide of Dieter Sölva. The property consists of about 17 acres of vineyards spread across the winegrowing region of Kaltern, including the sites of Prutznai, Galgenwiese, Schweigeregg, Barleit, Muttergarten, Kardatsch, Lavardi, Lavason, Salt, Vial, Trifall, and St. Georgen. Dieter specializes in Pinot Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Kerner, Schiava, and Lagrein, however he has small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot as well. From a winemaking perspective, Dieter ferments the wines in a combination of large oak barrels and stainless steel followed by barrel aging and lees contact. This process varies by wine and vintage, however the ultimate goal is to produce wines that demonstrate a sense of place in the most transparent way possible.
Today’s Wine: 2019 Kerner
100% Kerner; 13.5% ABV
The 2019 Kerner is medium yellow in color. Aromas are of pronounced intensity, with the nose showcasing notes of crisp yellow apple, lemon zest, mango, honeysuckle, grass, a hint of petrol, and crushed stone. Meanwhile the flavors are of medium (+) intensity, while the palate displays notes of yellow apple, grapefruit, lime, mango, white florals, mild green herbs, and mineral. This dry white is medium-bodied with medium (+) acidity, medium alcohol, and a medium length finish. Good quality and fun to try, though nothing mind-blowing to write home about on this summer sipper.
Price: $22. While it might not be the most exciting wine I’ve had, this is pretty well-priced considering the intensity and complexity. I wish the finish was longer, which is mainly my biggest mark against the wine. This is my first time trying a Kerner, so I’ll definitely seek out more.
If this wine seems like something you might enjoy, you may find this link helpful in locating it.
JB's Wine Talk 