In Kamptal, one of the most successful winegrowing regions in Austria, the river Kamp weaves past steeply terraced vineyards and patchwork fields until it reaches the Danube just east of Krems. Here, Matthias Warnung was born into a family of winemakers and has tended to the vines for just over ten years. Matthias’ great grandfather bought the family house in 1938 and, with it, the attached farmland. In the following decades, viticulture became increasingly important. It was here that Matthias gained his first experience of winemaking, bolstered by work abroad in New Zealand, South Africa and France. In Swartland, just north of Cape Town, Matthias witnessed the conversion of Craig Hawkins’ winery to organic viticulture; an approach which has underpinned his farming ever since. He talks passionately about the enriching nature of these experiences, which gave him an understanding of both wine and the people behind it. For the near future, Matthias envisages further connections through food and wine, and aims to build bridges between different ways of working. In early spring he will begin training as a meditation teacher and hopes this practice will flow into the company and the wines themselves.
Whitey is an elegant and slightly floral wine from 15 to 30 year old vines. It is made up of 75% Grüner Veltliner and 25% Müller Thurgau, the former pressed directly and the latter fermented on the mash. Further fermentation for 11 months in steel tanks gives a wine that retains its freshness, while offering a complexity which keeps us reaching for more! Fruity aromas of apple and pear are followed by lemon, artichoke and well- balanced acidity on the tongue. We found it even more delicious after being open for a day! Drink with spicy noodles or ramen.