2020 Weingut Stadt Krems Gruner Veltliner Kremstal 750 ml

The formula for Stadt Krems’ unbeatable value couldn’t be simpler: They’re led by a Winemaker of the Year—Fritz Miesbauer, who in 2020 was awarded that coveted title from Falstaff, Austria’s most prestigious wine publication—and they’ve owned their land for five centuries, so they can cut out the middleman and sell their world-class bottles at shockingly affordable prices. 

That’s why Stadt Krems has been a Wine Access favorite ever since we introduced our members to their stunning whites five years ago, and why we’re thrilled to have the 92-point 2020, born from a top vintage that “conquered my heart immediately,” according to The Wine Advocate.

This is Exhibit A in how Grüner Veltliner has gone from a little-known Austrian grape to one of the hottest varieties in wine. If you know it, you know how incredible it is. If you’re a white-wine fan who doesn’t know Grüner yet, this is the perfect introduction. With perky aromas of green apples, citrus, and peppery radish that lead into a snappy palate drenched in cool-toned green herbs and dewy stone fruit, it’s the kind of bright white wine that makes friends easily and keeps them.

The Austrians gulp this by the gallon with schnitzel, but we love it anytime: at cocktail hour, or with oysters on the half shell, fresh cheeses, and even pickled vegetables. No matter what we drink it with, though, we can’t get enough, so make sure to keep a second bottle in the fridge.