Markus Huber’s star continues to rise, with his wines making a bold statement in James Suckling’s Top 100 Wines of Austria 2024. The small yet remarkable Traisental appellation has become a hub of innovation and excellence, thanks to Huber’s daring approach to winemaking. This year, he not only earned the coveted title of Austrian Wine of the Year but also claimed the 12th spot on the list with his Riesling.
Austrian Wine of the Year: Markus Huber Grüner Veltliner Traisental Berg EL 2023, 99 points
Markus Huber’s Grüner Veltliner Traisental Berg EL 2023 has redefined what wines from this signature Austrian grape can be. With its spectacularly expressive and energetic profile, this wine took the top spot, a testament to Markus’s meticulous craftsmanship and willingness to challenge conventions. Its brilliance and precision, paired with an unforgettable pink grapefruit aroma, encapsulate why this wine stands out not just in Austria but on the global stage.
This achievement is even more remarkable considering the rarity of daring Grüner Veltliners. Huber’s innovative techniques, such as switching to whole-cluster pressing and using a conveyor belt system for gentler grape handling in 2023, have elevated the quality of his wines to new heights. This approach mirrors the methods used in Champagne and has made a decisive difference in the final product.
Markus Huber Riesling Traisental Berg EL 2023: No. 12 on the Top 100, 100 points
Huber’s Riesling Traisental Berg EL 2023 earned the 12th spot on the list, showcasing his mastery of this varietal as well. Despite scoring one point higher than the Grüner Veltliner, it was placed lower due to its more limited production of around 3,000 bottles. This wine is a stellar representation of the terroir, offering exceptional clarity, vibrant acidity, and a mineral-driven profile that reflects the lime-rich conglomerate soils of the region.
A Free-Thinker in the Traisental
Markus Huber embodies the spirit of innovation and perfectionism. Since taking over the family winery in 2000, he has transformed it into a beacon of excellence. The unique terroir of the Traisental, with its cool climate and reddish lime-rich soils, provides the foundation for his game-changing wines. Grapes here ripen up to 14 days later than in warmer regions, resulting in wines with remarkable depth and character.
Why Markus Huber Matters
Markus Huber’s wines are a celebration of Austria’s potential for both tradition and daring innovation. By claiming the top spot with his Grüner Veltliner and earning another accolade for his Riesling, Huber has solidified his place as one of Austria’s leading winemakers. His contributions are not just about quality but about redefining what is possible with Austria’s signature grape varieties.
Explore Markus Huber’s award-winning wines and discover the brilliance that has captured the attention of wine enthusiasts and critics worldwide.
