If you are a listener of the show for any length of time you know we love to talk about rare or unknown grape varieties and regions. This week is no exception with the rare and mysterious grape from Austria known as Saint Laurent. It’s a highly aromatic dark-skinned wine grape variety used in blends and varietal wines. As of 2013, there are about 5,000 acres of St. Laurent vines with major plantings in Austria, Germany, Czech Republic and Slovakia. Many compare it to Pinot Noir but to us, that is a short-sighted comparison. St. Laurent is unique and therefore we believe it should stand alone in it’s critique.
In this week’s episode we discuss:
- St. Laurent’s grape lineage
- Why it’s a challenging grape
- What does St. Laurent wine taste like?
- Food pairings
Wine Recommendations
- Paul Achs St. Laurent 2012 – priced around $26
- Nose: forest floor, violets and cherry
- Flavors: red berries, little spice, black plum, floral and a touch of earthiness on the finish
- Medium plus acidity, medium tannins, and medium bodied
- More fruit and less savory than the previous wine
- Purchase this wine by clicking here
- Forlorn Hope Ost-Intrigen 2014 – priced around $28
- Nose: sour cherries and spice
- Flavors: strong lavender, sour cherry, soy sauce or salted meat and some smokiness
- Medium bodied and acidity with light tannins
- Not at all what I was expecting! Much heavier than a Pinot Noir, very floral and savory.
- Purchase this wine by clicking here
- Bonus Wine!!! Cruse Wine Co. Sparkling St. Laurent – priced around $35
- Nose: Toast, flowers and apple
- Medium plus acidity with flavors of green apple, rose and a little salty
- This wine was yummy, crisp with clean flavors. A top quality sparkling wine so buy this wine if you get the chance!
- purchase this wine by clicking here
Have you tried St. Laurent wine before? Or are new to this rare gem like we were? We would love to hear your comments and recommendation below.
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