Gruner veltliner is one of the world's lesser-known great white wine varieties, offering far more character than most pinot grigios and far more subtlety than sauvignon blanc. This distinctive brand represents both good marketing and good value. It's a crisp, intensely flavorful dry wine with hints of pear, citrus, sweet pea, minerals and herbs. Give it a try — and then go on to sampling some of the even more exciting gruner veltliner wines from Austria.
2008 Grooner Gruner Veltliner
From: Niederosterreich, Austria
Price: $12
Serve with: Fish, chicken, veal