2022 Obegg Chardonnay Walter Polz Southern Styria 0.75l

2022 Obegg Chardonnay Walter Polz - Southern Styria
single-vineyard wine

Origin:

The Obegg vineyard is one of the most renowned sites in Southern Styria. Situated on a high plateau of an ancient coral reef , the soils are barren, calcareous, and rich in fossil deposits. This geological feature shapes the character of the Chardonnay, with its mineral tension and subtle saline freshness . The vines are over 30 years old , bringing a natural depth and complexity to the glass. The Walter Polz winery, one of the region's leading winemakers, understands how to interpret this terroir with elegance and precision.

Expansion:

The grapes were selectively harvested by hand and carefully processed in the cellar. Aging took place in a combination of 500-liter tonneaux and 250-liter barriques with light toasting. Around a year on the lees provides a creamy texture and delicate nutty notes, while the wood remains subtle, merely supporting the wine without overpowering the fruit.

Aroma & Taste:

The 2022 Obegg Chardonnay's aroma reveals fresh hay, chamomile, and subtle roasted notes . On the palate, it initially presents itself robustly and densely , then opens up to a complex spice with ginger and white pepper . The salty minerality lends it precision and length, while the elegant acidity structure ensures freshness. Still youthful, yet with great potential for development .

Food recommendation:

A versatile Chardonnay that pairs well with grilled turbot with fennel , veal fillet in morel cream , or poultry terrine with herbs . Aged Comté or porcini mushroom risotto also underscore its aromatic depth.

Special features of the 2022 vintage in Southern Styria:

The 2022 vintage is considered a very successful one in all Styrian wine-growing regions. After average rainfall, the rains shortly before harvest provided ideal ripening conditions, even though some selection was necessary. The harvest began unusually early and was completed in many places by September. The wines are powerful, harmonious, and balanced , with great ripeness but also remarkable freshness. The Chardonnays (Morillons) in particular developed with finesse and complexity – perfectly comparable to the equally outstanding 2021 vintages.

Conclusion:

The Obegg Chardonnay 2022 combines the strength of the site with Walter Polz's signature : dense, spicy, and mineral at the same time. It is a wine for discerning connoisseurs, captivating even when young, but will unfold its true greatness with age. An ambassador of Southern Styria , it demonstrates why Chardonnay, along with Sauvignon Blanc, is one of the region's flagship varieties.