Liz's Staff Pick - Paul D. 'Bee Natural'

Paul D. 'Bee Natural' Gemischter Satz 2022

Region: Lower Austria, Austria
Grape: 36% Grüner Veltliner, 36% Frühroter Veltliner, 23% Müller Thurgau, 5% Riesling
Drinks Best: Now

Liz's Notes:

Winemaker Paul Direder takes a unique spin on the traditional Viennese Gemischter Satz. For this field blend, the grapes see some time on the skins giving it a hazy honey yellow color - and maybe it's power of persuasion by looking at the color and the fun label, but the wine tastes just as you'd expect. Honeyed fruit notes and beeswax on the nose give way to raw honey and lemony, orange citrus on the palate. Despite the honey like flavors, the wine is completely dry and finishes with bright, fresh tangy acidity that makes it a perfect pairing for summertime snacks. 

What's Cooking?

Ooey gooey brie with apples and honey on a toasted baguette.

What do I like to drink?

My go-to region is usually Italy because I am typically cooking up something Italian in my kitchen, it's in my blood. But, Austrian wines have quickly become my standby. After two separate wine trips to the region, I've found that the people, food, and atmosphere in Austria is hard to beat, and can only be matched by the stunningly versatile and delicious wines they produce. Besides those regions, natural and funky are my jam - especially if I can put a light chill on it and enjoy with just some charcuterie and cheese.