Gewürztraminer 2009

A mature, spicy white wine from the Wachau, vinified dry at 12.0% ABV. The nose is crystal-clear and floral: roses, Amalfi lemons, pink grapefruit, kumquats, and Traminer grapes, complemented by mustard seeds, saffron, curry, and fennel. Smoky, bacon-like nuances add extra depth and spice without the aromatic profile ever appearing baroque.

The Saahs family has farmed the Nikolaihof since 1894, practicing Demeter biodynamic viticulture since 1971. The estate stands on the foundations of Favianis, a Roman fort dating back to 63 BC. The Im Weingebirge vineyard is considered the earliest documented vineyard in Europe, recorded as far back as 470 AD. Nikolaus Saahs Jr. manages the 22 hectares as a living organism: wild herbs between the vines, bees, and emerald lizards on the stone terraces.

100% Gewürztraminer. In the Roman vaulted cellar, a 350-year-old wooden beam press made of oak is still in use. The musts ferment spontaneously in large Slavonian oak casks, where some wines mature for a decade or more. This vintage was released from the cellar as an Archive Release 2024.

From the very first sip, it is profound, dense, and powerful—rich and saturated. The low acidity allows the wine its full opulence, while the palate texture remains smooth and creamy. Distinct bitter tones provide grip and structure without ever being intrusive.

Pair with pan-seared duck breast, curry dishes, and aged washed-rind cheese.

Nikolaihof was the first Demeter-certified winery in Austria and is considered the oldest Demeter-certified estate in the world. To this day, it remains the only certified biodynamic producer in the Wachau.