M.Altenburger Jungenberg Chardonnay

The Jungenberg is one of the most characterful sites in the Burgenland wine country — and Markus Altenburger, one of the most precise winemakers of his generation in Austria, shows here what Chardonnay can achieve beyond the buttery mainstream style. Altenburger farms his vineyards organically and consistently focuses on site expression rather than cellar technology — an approach that is palpable in his wines.

In the glass, it shows a bright golden yellow with greenish reflections. The nose is cool and precise: lime zest, fresh meadow herbs, and a hint of white blossom open up slowly in the glass. This is joined by a fine tropical note — mango and ripe grapefruit — which gives the wine depth without making it heavy. On the palate, a lively, firmly embedded acidity follows, carrying the medium body and giving the wine tension. The finish is clear, slightly salty, and persistent — a sign of the site's mineral imprint. Not a Chardonnay that imposes itself, but one that convinces with restraint and precision.

The Jungenberg Chardonnay pairs well with grilled fish, asparagus with herb sauce, scallops with lemon butter, or mild goat cheese. It also cuts a fine figure with light poultry dishes with herbs. Serving temperature: 10–12 °C.