‘Aprés Ski Like The Best Of Them’
SO often, cold winter weather is associated with deep, rich red wines. It’s cold outside, so why not pick something that warms your palate? But picture this- a long day on the slopes, schlepping the gear, the frozen extremities, empty bellies, goggle tans and gorgeous Vermont mountain vistas. After all that, when I rip off my boots I can’t help but feel totally parched!
Enter Grüner Veltliner. If you want to recover like a real Austrian, let me introduce you to the OG of Aprés Ski. The grape, known for its lemon-lime kick is the ultimate refreshment. On the palate, Grüner is dry, bright and spicy, with an herbaceous backbone and a wonderfully balanced, mouthwatering acidity that keeps you coming back for more. My current go-to-Grüner comes from the Weinviertel region of Austria. Specifically from the Schödl Family, under their label Loss Und Lehm. Organically farmed from chalky clay soils, their grapes are ripe, and bursting with the freshness and acidity I reach for in a Grüner Veltliner. Pour yourself a glass, and proceed to thaw.
Now that your glass is full, let’s talk snacks. The minerality and citrus notes of Grüner Veltliner make it a candidate for a wide variety of food pairings, from crudité and salads to schnitzel and smoked fish. From Cork Market, I’m grabbing Fishwife’s Smoked Rainbow Trout and Little Sesame’s Preserved Lemon Hummus. Some snap peas for scooping and crusty bread for mopping up the smoky olive oil will round out the snacking plate. If I’m skipping the hot tub party and heading home with my bottle (let’s face it- I can’t miss the new episode of White Lotus) I need something that is convenient, hearty, and will pair well with the Loss Und Lehm. Grüner Veltliner is a friend of spicy food due to its bright citrus and minerality, and green thai curry delivers! At Cork Market, I reach for Mike’s Organic Green Thai Curry Paste and coconut cream. Sautée any vegetables and lean proteins I have lying around, add the curry paste and then coconut milk. The curry is bright and fresh from lemongrass and Kaffir lime peel, and the heat will be quelled by the acidity of the wine. Serve over rice doused in lime juice and fresh cilantro. A match made in heaven.
I am officially warm, and you are officially ready for Aprés like a pro!
Cheers!
Emma