At that time, Esterházy was already known for the quality of the wine made at its ancestral home in Burgenland in eastern Austria near the Hungarian border. Now, some 250 years later, Esterházy wines have come to the United States, and Americans can discover for themselves why Haydn so willingly accepted wine rather than cash.
Esterházy produces wines in several categories. Among the wines in its Classic category is Zweigelt, from a red grape created in Austria in 1922 when Dr. Zweigelt crossed two other grape varieties to fashion this new one. Zweigelt is now the most widely planted red grape in Austria. Esterházy’s 2009 ($26) is quietly refined, well knit, fresh, fruity and nimble.
Grüner Veltlinter, a wine from Esterházy’s Estoras category, is Austria’s most popular white, made from an indigenous grape of the same name. The aroma of the 2010 ($29) is reminiscent of tropical fruits; its taste is minerally and inviting. Another Estoras wine blends 80 percent of Blaufrankish, one of Austria’s most prominent red grapes, with 20 percent Cabernet Sauvignon to give, in its 2009 version, a vibrant, spicy, lively and ample-bodied wine ($33).
Esterházy takes particular pride in its Tesoro. And indeed, judging from the 2008 ($86.50), it is an exceptional wine. Here the winery moves from Austria’s own grapes completely to international varieties, blending 60 percent Merlot and 40 percent Cabernet Sauvignon to create an intriguing wine with an intense nose, deep flavors and excellent balance. In all, an elegant wine.
And finally, under its sweet category, there is the Esterházy Trockenbeerenauslese Cuvée 2008, the rare, exquisite, sweet wine that has few rivals. Its nose is all ripe peach and apricot; its body is luscious and honey-like; the taste, with its concentrated sweetness balanced by a bright acidity, is dessert in itself. The price, $57 for a .375 bottle (half a standard bottle), is not inexpensive, but for the pleasure it gives, worth many times its price.
Read This Next
Jamaica, Tryall Club, Chef Kai Bechinger
2011 / March 2011
Mar 1, 2012Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Mar 5, 20213 Recipes for Lent from New Orleans’ Top Chefs
The Lenten season continues through April 3. This year, New Orleans’ top chefs share some Lent-friendly recipes for at-home dining.
Sponsored Content
Adventure Redefined: Volvo Overseas Delivery
Custom order your Volvo through the Overseas Delivery Program and receive round-trip airfare, hotel accommodations, and a personalized delivery at the Volvo Factory Delivery Experience in Gothenburg, Sweden. Your experience begins in Sweden with insurance and registration included, enabling you to drive your new Volvo throughout Scandinavia and Europe. Create the adventure of a lifetime with the program named Best Overseas Delivery four years running, and return home with the ultimate souvenir.
January/February 2021
Mar 5, 2021Indulge in the Seductive Splendor Bora Bora
I had just taken off my sandals, stepping onto the white-sand beach for a late-morning walk to a secluded spot I heard about from a front desk clerk, when I glanced down and saw the time on my phone. It had just turned 11 a.m., which meant it was only 7 am back home, the perfect time to call and say good morning to by husband before he left for work. Not quite ready to head back to my room, I decided I’d test the WiFi signal and made the call as I continued walking toward the shoreline.
January/February 2021
Mar 4, 2021Set Your Sights on San Antonio’s Art, Culture and Green Spaces
San Antonio celebrated 300 years of progress in May 2018. With a clear vision following that anniversary year, the Texan city set its sights firmly on 300 more. While commemorating this milestone, the city underwent a major overhaul to prepare for the next phase in its history.
Sponsored Content
The Greatest Show on Earth
Step right up to the greatest show on Earth as FXExpress Publications, Global Traveler, trazeetravel.com and whereverfamily.com celebrate their 2020 award winners! Join the big top on Dec. 14 as we virtually award the winners of the 17th annual GT Tested Reader Survey awards, including the Airline and Hotel of the Year; the 17th annual Wines on the Wing Airline Wine Survey; the eighth annual Leisure Lifestyle Awards; the sixth annual The Trazees; and the third annual Wherever Awards.
Daily
Mar 4, 2021SoJo Spa Club: Tranquility with an Urban View
When you think of a relaxing spa day, mountains, rivers and view of gorgeous landscapes pop in your head; a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of any city’s booming music and honking taxis. SoJo Spa Club and Hotel gives you the relaxing feeling of being away while still staying close to the busy center of Manhattan.
Mondrian Doha Review
eFlyer Reviews
Mar 3, 2021Gaylord Hotels Announces Spring Specials
eFlyer Deals
Mar 3, 2021eFlyer Deals
Mar 3, 2021Mackinac Island’s Grand Hotel’s Reopening Offers
Dance the night away with Grand Hotel’s Ballroom Dance offer, available May 16–18. Dancers of all skill levels will experience a diverse range of ballroom dance styles, alongside daily breakfast and dinner, a welcome reception and complimentary golf green fees.
Sponsored Content
Adventure Redefined: Volvo Overseas Delivery Program
Are you looking for a truly unique travel experience and considering a new vehicle? The Volvo Overseas Delivery Program is the perfect solution to create your own refined adventure of a lifetime. You can custom order your new Volvo, tailored to fit your needs and desires. They will fly you to Sweden to pick up your Volvo so you can drive and explore Scandinavia and Europe on your terms for up to two weeks.
eFlyer Lead
Mar 3, 20214 Travel Experiences for Women’s History Month
March marks Women’s History Month, and there are a number of ways to celebrate through travel. Here are just a few ideas to honor women in history.
ShareThis