Andreas Tscheppe, Salamander, 2024

Andreas Tscheppe is part of the Styrian quintet of vignerons called Schmeck das Leben (taste of life). He has small vineyard parcels in a few locations and a corner of a cellar in his brother, Ewald's house, where he makes his wine. He only makes white wines from Sauvignon, Chardonnay and the two Muskatellers; some are straight pressed, some are skin contact wines, all spend a long time in barrels maturing before they are ready to be released. Farming is biodynamic. Each plant has its place and every living thing is taken into consideration in the belief that the vitality and complexity of the soil are the basis for expressive wines. The vineyards are invigorating places to visit, full of flowers and insects. Harvest is only done by hand. Selection already happens in the vineyard yielding naturally low yields. The destemmed grapes rest for a few hours before the berries get crushed.