Mantlerhof Grüner Veltliner Gutswein (1-Liter) '24

If there is such a thing as the ultimate picnic wine, this 2024 Mantlerhof Grüner Veltliner might be it. Mantlerhof is a historic Kremstal estate whose farm has been active for over 600 years, with a long tradition of organic farming and vineyards rooted primarily in the region’s classic löss soils. This bottling comes from estate-grown fruit planted on löss terraces, fermented in stainless steel with wild yeasts, and aged five months on fine lees, giving it just enough texture to balance its bright, easy-drinking personality. In the glass, it is classic Grüner, green apple, citrus, pear, a little white pepper, and a flinty mineral snap, all finishing clean, fresh and mouthwatering. The best part is the format: a full 1-liter bottle, made for the park, the beach, the backyard, or wherever summer drinking takes you. Open it with salads, sandwiches, fried chicken, grilled vegetables or anything salty and snacky, and you will understand why this is one of my favorite summer bottles.