Hillinger Secco Muskat Ottonel

Leo Hillinger is one of the most modern wineries in Austria, working from Jois in Burgenland where the Pannonian climate and warm soils give ideal ripening. This Secco puts the aromatic Muskat Ottonel grape front and centre in a light, semi-sparkling Frizzante style. The grapes are fermented in stainless steel tanks to keep the varietal aromatics unspoiled, and the fizz is added to give a fine bead. At 11.5% alcohol and around 18 grams per litre of residual sugar it sits just off dry, the aromatic fruit balanced by fresh, well-integrated acidity.

The colour is a bright straw yellow with green flecks. The nose is dominated by fresh muscat grape, lychee, elderflower and citrus. The palate is lively, fruity and aromatic, with a fine residual sweetness and clean acidity, the bead fine and the finish fragrant. Serve well chilled at 6 to 8 degrees. It makes an aromatic aperitif and suits light Mediterranean food, summer salads, antipasti, mildly spiced Asian dishes and fruity desserts.