Heidi Schrock & Sohne Furmint 2024

Heidi Schröck is one of the defining figures of modern winegrowing in Rust, on the western shore of Lake Neusiedl in Burgenland. Her family has grown vines here for more than 300 years, and Heidi took over the 10 hectare estate in 1983. Her twin sons Georg and Johannes joined her in 2019 after gaining experience abroad, and the domaine is now known as Heidi Schröck & Söhne. Beyond the celebrated sweet wines of Rust, the family has been particularly important in reviving traditional local varieties such as furmint, which historically had a much greater presence in this border region.

The vineyards form a southeast facing amphitheater around Rust, influenced by the warmth and humidity of Lake Neusiedl. Farming is sustainable, without herbicides or insecticides, and native vegetation is encouraged as cover crop between the vines. The 2024 Furmint comes from the Turner and Vogelsang vineyards, planted on the distinctive Ruster Schotter: loamy sand mixed with gravel, grey quartz and slate. These free draining soils and the lake moderated climate give furmint both ripeness and the firm acidity for which the variety is known.

The 2024 is 100% furmint, harvested by hand and fermented spontaneously. For this vintage, fermentation takes place in large acacia casks, followed by approximately ten months of élevage in 1,500 and 2,000 liter acacia vessels. The large, neutral wood is intended less to contribute oak flavor than to build texture and allow the wine to develop on its lees. The result is dry and structured, combining furmint’s naturally high acidity with considerably more texture and depth than a simple stainless steel white.

Golden apple, quince and lemon are joined by chamomile, herbs and subtle smoky spice. The palate is taut and energetic but not lean, with juicy orchard fruit, firm acidity and a gently creamy lees texture. It finishes long and mouthwatering, with flinty, savory and saline notes.