Austria Uncorked at Fort Mason Center in San Francisco was a rare opportunity to taste some of the top wines of Austria, from multiple estates (and multiple importers) all under one roof. There were many wines from the highly anticipated 2009 vintage on display. The 2009's have really wonderful flavor and definition while being tightly wound and concentrated. I've written a report on this vintage for an upcoming issue of Sommelier Journal, to summarize:

"...the early reports, including those of the Austrian Wine Marketing Board and jancisrobinson.com, projected 2009 to be a vintage of exceptional quality, although of smaller quantity. Michael Moosbrugger of the Schloss Gobelsburg estate refers to 2009 as being similar to the 2007 and 2005 vintages, both of which displayed exceptional character, quality, and longevity. Willi Kilinger, general manager of the Austrian Wine Marketing Board noted that "despite the hail and difficulties with the fruit set...the rest of the growing season was perfect, with dry days and cool nights, resulting in fully ripe and beautifully healthy fruit. Those who have loved the 2008 vintage for its finesse and purity can savor 2009 for its balanced richness, taut acidity, and strength of character..."

jessebeckerMS

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