Leo Sommer

Leo Sommer is a key figure in the Burgenland wine scene, often referred to as "Mister Grüner Veltliner of Burgenland" for his mastery of the grape. He has taken over the family winery, which dates back to 1698, and is forging a new path with a focus on organic viticulture and low-intervention winemaking.

Region

The Sommer winery is located in Donnerskirchen, in the Leithaberg wine region of Burgenland, Austria. The vineyards are on the western shores of Lake Neusiedl, on the eastern slopes of the Leitha Mountains. The terroir is a key factor, with a unique blend of:

  • Soils: Diverse soils including schist, limestone, gneiss, and quartz. This mix contributes to the wines' complexity and a distinct, fine-grained minerality.

  • Climate: A warm Pannonian climate is moderated by the cool winds from the Leithaberg and the nearby Lake Neusiedl. This allows for long ripening periods, which helps to preserve acidity and freshness in the wines.

Grapes Used

Leo Sommer cultivates a variety of grapes, with a clear emphasis on white wines.

  • White Grapes: 🥂 Grüner Veltliner is the flagship grape and his specialty. He also works with Riesling, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Welschriesling, and Gewürztraminer.

  • Red Grapes: 🍇 Blaufränkisch and Zweigelt are the main red grapes, which are classic for the region.

Representative Wines and Philosophy

Leo Sommer's winemaking philosophy is rooted in a deep respect for nature and a hands-on approach. He and his team are certified organic, and they believe in taking a patient, artisanal approach in the cellar. This includes extended aging on fine lees, and using a variety of vessels such as stainless steel, large old oak barrels, concrete, and barriques to achieve different stylistic expressions. His wines are known for their depth, complexity, and honest reflection of their origin.

He has a range of wines that showcase his philosophy:

  • "Handwerk" (Craftsmanship) Line: This series of wines, including Riesling and Welschriesling, highlights the careful work and low-intervention methods used to produce wines with great texture and fine minerality.

  • "Leithaberg DAC" Wines: These are his most terroir-expressive wines, with a focus on single-vineyard bottlings. His Grüner Veltliner and Blaufränkisch from this line are particularly well-regarded for their complexity and ability to age.

  • "Little Sister" Grüner Veltliner: A playful but sophisticated wine, it is a great example of his creative approach. It is often aged in both large barrels and concrete, giving it a lively, juicy, and expressive character with a subtle saline finish.

  • "Salz und Rauch" (Salt and Smoke): This is one of his most celebrated wines, often a single-vineyard Grüner Veltliner that showcases the mineral and savory side of the grape. It is a more serious and profound wine with great aging potential.

 

Adresse: Johannesstraße 26, 7082 Donnerskirchen, Österreich