To say Kurt Angerer is a down-to-earth winemaker is something of an understatement.

Angerer, an Austrian who produces some of the most highly regarded wines in the country's Kamptal region, has such a strong connection to his terroir that he names all of his cuv�es accordingly: Kies, Spies, Loam, Granit and Eichenstaude.

His affection for the earth is easy to understand--it's the unique mineral structure of the soil and Angerer's deft touch with it that give his wines their distinct character.

This week, we're honoring Kurt's grounded approach to winemaking with a rock-solid deal on one of his top cuv�es: the 2011 Gr�ner Veltliner Eichenstaude.

Angerer's understanding of and respect for terroir has an unshakable foundation: a family estate steeped in 150 years of winemaking. In a continuation of the traditional approach espoused by his predecessors, Kurt takes great care to ensure every detail of the process contributes to an optimal end product.

Kurt Angerer has a rock solid connection with his terroir.

It begins, of course, with the soil--a diverse combination of bedrock, loose soil and gravel, depending on the specific vineyard--but also encompasses the position of the vineyards (a south-southwest posture that protects the vines from rough northern winds), the carefully selected assortment of varietals and the vinification process.

The 2011 Gr�ner Veltliner Eichenstaude is an excellent example of how Angerer's approach translates to wines of unique character and uncompromising quality. Its bright aromas of pear, citrus, white pepper and minerals instantly place it in another category from typical Kamptal Gr�ners, while its elegant balance of perfectly ripe fruit and spice--as well as a long finish of, what else, minerality--make it a highly enjoyable, eminently food-friendly wine. (It pairs particularly well with veal-based dishes like Wiener Schnitzel.)

We'll be pouring samples this Friday and Saturday, so stop by to taste for yourself (or contact us to place an order). We think we're on pretty solid ground when we say this is one deal you won't want to miss. -- Sam Mitchell, Wine Consultant for Weygandt Wines