Brut Nature

A sparkling wine that derives its density from minerality rather than sweetness: dosage is at 0 g/l, with an alcohol content of 11.5% ABV. In the glass, it shows a medium golden yellow with a lively, intense perlage.

Nikolaihof is located in Mautern in the Wachau, built upon the foundations of the Roman fort Favianis dating back to 63 BC. The Saahs family has managed the estate since 1894, and biodynamically according to Demeter standards since 1971. Wild herbs grow among the vines across the 22 hectares, where bees and green lizards are part of the natural ecosystem. The "Im Weingebirge" vineyard has been documented in records dating back to 470 AD.

An assemblage of Grüner Veltliner, Chardonnay, and Zweigelt. Traditional method bottle fermentation, tirage in June 2021, disgorgement in November 2024 — over three years of yeast contact on the lees. Brut Nature literally means what it says here: zero grams of dosage, no added sugar for balance.

The nose opens intensely with ripe apples, apricots, bread crust, and yeast; with aeration, small red fruits, plums, and wild herbs join in. On the palate, a striking minerality envelops the juicy fruit, the carbonation remains intense and lively, and the finish is exceptionally long. Even two days after opening, the sparkling wine retains its remarkable composure.

Pairs wonderfully with umami dishes.

Nikolaihof is Demeter-certified and regarded as the oldest Demeter winery in the world. The estate gained worldwide renown for its extended aging in large wooden casks: the 1995 Riesling Vinothek became the first Austrian wine ever to be awarded 100 Parker points in 2014.