Is there any upper limit to what Austria can achieve? As a wine nation, Austria has been on an astounding quality trajectory, mastering a balance of freshness and intensity across a wide range of varieties... Read More

Is there any upper limit to what Austria can achieve? As a wine nation, Austria has been on an astounding quality trajectory, mastering a balance of freshness and intensity across a wide range of varieties and terroirs. And the greatest jewel in its crown is Tement.

This biodynamic producer of an incredible breadth of site and varietal expressions, each one a unique powerhouse, has achieved universal accolades and still manages to deliver impressive value relative to its status. Masters of the tightrope walk between technical deftness, precise structure and layered minerality (qualities that define the greatest Teutonic wines) and a passionate, sigh-and-close-your-eyes verve, Tement wines always make you feel like you're in on a secret, even as they grace the best wine lists in the world and collect praise on praise with every release. 

In their homeland, the idyllic land of Styria, vineyards and forests cover steep hills and plunging valleys in a landscape of ethereal beauty. Here, versatility reigns. Austria's classic diesel-fueled Rieslings and Gruner Veltliners are less common than nervy Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, plus even Welschriesling and lesser-known varieties. Styria borders Slovenia and Italy, and climates range from warm to cold, and usually rainy, while soils are just as diverse: limestone, basalt, sandstone and primary rock dominate, sometimes all within the same vineyard. That's definitely true at Tement, where terroir-specific bottlings showcase winemaker Armin's enviable mastery of biodynamic growing in this challenging climate.
 
Tement has been making incredible Sauvignon Blanc (and more!) for decades, but until recently, remained somewhat under-the-radar in the US. I vividly recall a Master of Wine assessment years ago that included a Sauvignon Blanc of such remarkable quality that it baffled most students (the question prompt clearly stated that it was not French). To near-unanimous shock, it turned out to be a Tement wine. Today, it's hard to argue with those who say Austria is making the best Sauvignon Blanc in the world outside of the Loire, and it's no secret which producer has led that charge. 
 
They also make wonderful Chardonnay, Welschriesling, and Gelber Muskateller, in true Styrian fashion.