What an enlightening experience to participate in a virtual tasting of The Princely Wines of Liechtenstein with Stefan Tscheppe, Winemaker and Estate Director. This celebration of joie de vivre with four expressive wines (sent as samples) from their two wine brands in Austria and Liechtenstein paid homage to the legacy of the vineyards and winery dating from 1348. Tscheppe made it clear that visitors are welcome at their beautiful Liechtenstein location where a Michelin star restaurant awaits and at the stunning Garden Palais in Vienna, Austria. At either spot, we can taste and learn more as we indulge in the wine’s princely pleasures!
Photo Credit: The Princely Wines of Liechtenstein
Known as The Hofkellerei Fürst Liechtenstein, vineyards and wineries in both countries are owned by Prince Hans Adam II of Liechtenstein and the Princely Family. Princess Marie, a member of the Princely Family, has as part of her mission “to make wines she wants to drink.” And rightly so. 10% of all production is saved for a multitude of events for or sponsored by the Princely Family. By all accounts, Princess Marie, although not a winemaker, offers her opinions that are a true inspiration to the winemaking team.
Stefan Tscheppe and Princess Marie – Photo Credit: The Princely Wines of Liechtenstein
Vinification at vineyards in both Austria and Liechtenstein begins with gentle pruning, thought of as “the basis for wines with character, origin and structure.” Each parcel is organic and regeneratively farmed with the use of low intervention and indigenous yeast as just two characteristics. The vitality of the soil, the vines and the wines are of paramount importance. Traditional methods, such as extended maceration and spontaneous fermentation, enrich the distinctive style of the wines. Tscheppe stated, “the focus is clearly on the vineyards.
Photo Credit: The Princely Wines of Liechtenstein
Karlsberg wines, of which we tasted three, are from single vineyards in Austria.
Ried Karlsberg Gruner Veltliner 2021 ($25) is from the Reserve portfolio. Cultivated from older vines grown in deep loess soils, the vineyards have been owned by the family for more than 600 years; it is their oldest parcel. When we’re seeking a wine that exudes “origin, terroir, authenticity, precision and high value,” this may be the one. Immediately, I noted a fresh and structured profile. Citrus, ripe pears, spice, pepper and breezy salinity on the nose led to the same elements on the palate. Austere with racy acidity, the finish was lengthy. If you’ve tasted Gruner Veltliner, you already understand that it is “one of the internationally most sought-after Austrian wines in recent history.” This wine is a brilliant pairing with smoked trout dip, shellfish, sushi and favorite vegetarian dishes.
Princess Marie designed the bottle of Herrnbaumgarten 2022 ($25). This rare blend of 45% Gruner Veltliner and 55% Riesling are of grapes cultivated on deep, calcareous layers of loess and small limestone pearls from the onetime Danube Delta. A joy to sip with a good friend who dropped by one evening, I found each taste delicate and elegant. With a mix of salt and minerality as a backdrop to notes of exotic spice, stone fruit, purple flowers and mint leaves, this is an original, anytime wine.
Ried Karlsberg Cuvee 2021 ($50) expressed purity of flavor. It is from vineyards located above the village of Herrnbaumgarten and has been farmed for centuries. Structure and depth originate from old vines on deep, stressed loess soils with high limestone content. A cuvee of Riesling and Gruner Veltliner, complexity and elegance are hallmark traits. On the nose, I found an abundance of citrus, stone fruit, florals, smoke and flint. The palate exuded salty minerality, white grapefruit and tangerine zest. Thanks to its weight and density, consider ageing the wine for years to come – if you can! Enjoy a bottle or two with seafood, veal piccata, roast chicken or any farm to table cuisine.
In 1712, Fürst (Ruling Prince) Johann Adam I of Liechtenstein purchased the County of Vaduz, after which the Herawingert vineyard and winery, today’s Hofkellerei , became the property of the Princely House. The single cru Herawingert is considered “the most traditionally esteemed and important vineyard in the Principality of Liechtenstein.” In fact, The Princely Family agrees that the Herawingert has been one of the most significant vineyards in the Rhine River Valley for 1000 years.
Ried Herawingert Pinot Noir 2020 ($70) is clearly a wine for Pinot lovers due, in part, to its Old World style. 40 year old vines on slate and limestone soils help create mineral-driven wines with intense aromas and flavors. Wafting from the glass were elements of cherries, dried fruit, dark chocolate and crushed raspberries. On the expressive palate, I found notes of red berries and savory fruit compote framed with firm tannins and moderate acidity. A beautiful wine, I paired a glass with grilled fish and slightly spicy sauce one evening – absolutely delicious.
Freshness, finesse and elegance are signature characteristics of The Princely Wines of Liechtenstein. Find a few bottles, then plan your trip to Liechtenstein and Austria. Princely pleasures are ours with every sip!
Cheers! ~ Cindy
