Lackner-Tinnacher, Morillon “Eckberg”

STYRIA, AUSTRIA |  2020

Winemaker Katharina Tinnacher draw inspiration from the land as well as her family’s history, which includes producing wine since as far back as 1770. She took over from her father in 2010, achieved certified organic farming shortly thereafter, and in a decade has cemented her role as one of the top winemakers in not only Styria but all of Austria. 

The southern region of Styria seems a world apart from the more known appellations of Austria located in the north. It is here that Lackner-Tinnacher produces solely white wines, from a host of varieties, including Welschriesling, Weissburgunder, Muskateller, Grauburgunder, Morillon (the Styrian name for Chardonnay), and Sauvignon Blanc.

The last two varieties mentioned, found their way to the region as they were introduced by Archduke John, who, in the early 1800s, was banished to the region after disgracing his family by marrying a commoner. 

Morillon or Chardonnay is well suited to the soil and climate of Styria, and in the hands of Katharina, it absolutely dazzles. This Morillon comes from the Eckberg vineyard, which has a subsoil composed of lime marl with loam on top. It provides the nutritious soil, sufficiently supplied with water, in which primarily Burgundy varieties thrive. The vineyards are situated at 450 meters above sea level. Their exposure to the east ensures rapid warming in the morning, quick drying of the grapes, and thus good vitality of the fruit.

35 year-old vines are handpicked, crushed and fermented with natural yeast in stainless steel tanks, where they are aged there alongside some big wooden barrels for 8 months.

Beautiful aromas of pear, green tea and walnuts. Medium-bodied, yet fresh, with hints of yellow plum and cardamom on the palate. Delicate, yet impactful. Great to pair alongside simply prepared crab or whole fish.