Grüner Veltliner is by far Austria's most popular varietal and accounts for about one-third of all vineyard plantings in Austria. This unique varietal is gaining popularity with white wine lovers around the world and if you're a fan of unoaked white wines like Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio/Gris, we think you'll also like Grüner Veltliner.
Name Origins: “Grüner Veltliner” translates to “Green Veltliner,” referencing the Veltlin region in the Alps—now part of northern Italy—even though the grape itself is native to Austria. Back in the 16th and 17th centuries, this Alpine area was part of the Holy Roman Empire and later came under Austrian Habsburg control, so it had strong political and cultural ties to Austria—even if it’s now firmly Italian territory.
That said, despite the name, Grüner Veltliner is not genetically linked to any grapes from Valtellina. Ampelographers believe the name was more of a stylistic or regional nod than a literal origin story. The grape itself is indigenous to Austria, particularly Lower Austria (Niederösterreich), and its parentage includes Savagnin (Traminer) and a nearly extinct Austrian variety discovered in Burgenland, St. Georgener.
Not Related to Other Veltliners: Despite the name, Grüner Veltliner isn’t genetically related to other "Veltliner" named varietals like Roter Veltliner or Frühroter Veltliner also found in the region.
Pepper Power: Grüner Veltliner's super power is its signature white pepper aroma and flavor that comes from a compound called rotundone, the same one found in Syrah. It's also important to not confuse the rotundone peppery notes of Grüner Veltliner with pyrazine, green bell pepper notes in other wines. These are two completely different classes of chemical compounds and rotundone doesn't give off "vegetal green" pepper or spice notes like pyrazine often does.
Versatile Styles and in Pairing: Grüner Veltliner (GV) ranges from light and zesty to rich and age-worthy. In regions like Wachau, top-tier styles are labeled Smaragd and can rival fine white Burgundies. Thanks to its high acidity and subtle spice, it pairs brilliantly with everything from Wiener Schnitzel to sushi, ramen, and even asparagus—a notoriously tricky match.
Ages Gracefully: While many Grüners are meant to be enjoyed young, the best examples can age for a decade or more, developing nutty, waxy, and honeyed complexity.
Rising Star Around the World: While 75% of Grüner Veltliner is grown in Austria, winemakers around the world have started to plant the varietal in other places. Interesting examples can also found in the U.S., Australia, New Zealand, and Central Europe—each offering a unique twist on the grape.