Austrian Wine Trade Fair, Rosehill Lounge, Toronto

  The Baroness and I covered the event that was open to licensees, journalists, and other trade. There were wines from more than 35 Austrian wineries. Representatives direct from the wineries and their agents were pouring their best. Austrian wine production now exceeds that of Germany. There was a definite buzz of excitement here. These wines set new standards in quality.

Some notable wineries that deserve mention are Weingut Andert, Bründlmayer, Schloss Gobelsburg, Rabl and Stadt Krems...

A few tasting notes: Andert's wines were amazing. John Szabo and I especially enjoyed tasting the Gewürztraminer 2008, St. Laurent 2007 and Gelber Muscateller Beerenauslese. John thought the BA was spectacular. More Andert notes here.

Notable Bründlmayer wines were the Grüner Veltliner 2007 and Grüner Veltliner Old Vines 2006. Their Brut sparkling wine was also lovely.

Michael Moosbrugger of Schloss Gobelsburg was personally present this day with a vast assortment of GVs and Rieslings. I especially liked each of his three Rieslings.

Rudolf Rabl of Rabl winery was also there in person. His lovely wines are affordable and delicious. From his Grüner Veltliners to his Rieslings to his Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé. These excellent Kamptal wines should be enjoyed by all.

Stadt Krems is another Grüner Veltliner powerhouse. This year was no exception.

All in all, the tasting was an excellent success. I was one of 250 people who enjoyed the friendly hospitality, beautiful wines and worn down pencils as we all furiously took notes to capture the magic of the afternoon as only the people of Gemütlichkeit can provide.