Nikolaihof is Austria's oldest wine estate. The first documentary evidence of winemaking at Nikolaihof dates back to the Celts in the year 470 AD. Today, the winery is operated by the Saahs family under strict accordance with Biodynamic regulations of the Demeter organization. The philosophy of the Saahs is to " to get as much power and energy as possible into the wine while interfering with nature as little as possible." In place of herbicides, pesticides, artificial fertilizers and synthetic sprays, which are never used in the vineyards, stinging nettle, valerian tea and other Biodynamic preparations are used to promote a homeopathic balance and a sense of wellness in the soil.
For planting and harvesting, Christine Saahs refers to the lunar calendar for optimum results. "By using only natural nutrients, maintaining the health of the soil and carrying out all work with close reference to the moon calendar – all criteria which are strictly observed on a Biodynamically-run estate – the stress levels can be significantly lowered. As a consequence the wine retains a considerable quantity of secondary plant matter, which can then strengthen the body's defenses against, for example, premature ageing, allergies, hypersensitivities, heart and circulation diseases, cancer and many more." Truly a drink to your health.
Hefeabzug translates to aged on the lees, which is how this wine is made, with natural yeast only. Shades of pale green glimmer from the glass with youthful aromas of stone fruits, spice and minerals. Medium bodied and crisp with the kiss of fresh apple and salty minerality on the finish. Aging on its lees adds extra dimension and broadens the enjoyment of this delightful white.
