Wines Südsteiermark DAC Weingut Tement - Kalk & Kreide - 2023

Viniou Reviews

The 2023 Kalk & Kreide Cuvée from Weingut Tement is a beautifully expressive white wine hailing from the Südsteiermark DAC appellation, nestled in Austria’s southern Styria. Crafted predominantly from Sauvignon Blanc, often with additions of Welschriesling, Morillon (the local name for Chardonnay), and sometimes Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc), this cuvée is renowned for its purity and aromatic intensity. The 2023 vintage was marked by favourable weather, yielding grapes of exceptional freshness and vibrancy. The terroir is defined by its limestone and clay ("Kalk & Kreide" translating to "lime and chalk"), which impart a sleek minerality and tension to the wine. Careful vinification in stainless steel and large oak casks preserves the grape’s crisp fruit profile and accentuates the hallmark minerality, resulting in a wine that is both lively and complex.

Südsteiermark, with its gently rolling hills at the foothills of the Alps, benefits from a cool, temperate climate influenced by both Mediterranean and alpine currents. This interplay ensures significant diurnal variation, promoting aromatic development and preserving acidity in the grapes. The soils—primarily limestone and clay—add a unique mineral backbone, especially when coupled with the region's centuries-old winemaking traditions. Steiermark’s viticultural history stretches back to Roman times and is distinguished today by small, quality-driven estates such as Weingut Tement, celebrated for their commitment to organic farming and meticulous vineyard care.

The brisk, mineral-driven character of Kalk & Kreide matches perfectly with delicate freshwater fish such as trout or char, simply grilled or served with fresh herbs. Equally successful pairings include shellfish, sushi, young goat’s cheese, or classic Styrian dishes like backhendl (fried chicken) with potato salad. Vegetable tempura or asparagus risotto also complement its aromatic lift and lively acidity.

For the most rewarding tasting experience, serve this wine well-chilled at 8–10°C. It will be at its best in a tulip-shaped glass to concentrate its aromas. Decanting is generally unnecessary, but opening the bottle twenty minutes before serving can further accentuate its expressive bouquet and invigorating freshness.