F.X. Pichler Sauvignon Blanc Grosse Reserve 2015

From Steinertal holdings, this Sauvignon spent time in both cask and tank before a late bottling in June 2017, and the oak influence is hard to ignore. Vanilla and resin sit alongside fresher herbal notes of mint and basil on the nose, giving a slightly split personality. The mid-palate is plush and glycerol-rich, with honeydew melon cut by a lively rind-like tang. That richness holds appeal, but a faint dry, woody edge dulls the finish before it can fully glow. Aging upside here is limited, drink soon. Worth noting that for the 2016 vintage, Lucas Pichler stepped away from barriques entirely.