Marillen, Pears and Apfelstrudel in a glass

I sometimes joke that, being Swedish, I was born and raised on vodka. So when Reinhard brings out the farm’s three different Edelbrands, I feel ready. Or at least, as ready as one can ever be when faced with three small glasses after a long, warm, day.

Marillen, marillen and a little bit more marillen…

All three are made from fruit: pear, apricot and apple. We begin with the Wachauer Marille. A natural choice, considering that we are in apricot country with the apricot harvest in full swing.

A small side note: I had absolutely no idea that you could do quite so many things with Marillen. During my days here, I have encountered everything from ice cream, jam and Marillenknödel to skincare products, soap, vinegar and perfume(!) The apricot is clearly not just a fruit here.It is a way of life.

Not a shot!

The little glass is filled with a clear, slightly oily spirit. The aroma is full of apricot, but there are also notes of almond and nuts. The first sip is strong. No surprise there, we are, after all, talking about 41% alcohol. But the flavour is there.

And taking a little inspiration from my experience with whisky, I add a few drops of water. Suddenly, everything opens up. An explosion of aromas and flavours;Apricot. Orange peel. Almond. Pepper.

This is not a little shot to be knocked back quickly. This is something to be sipped. To be paid attention to. And, preferably, not consumed while trying to have a serious conversation. Or maybe just that? As a way to make the conversation even more serious? Who knows?

William

Back to the tasting. Next in line is the pear Edelbrand made of William pears. This one also receives a small splash of water, and once again, the spirit opens up. Ripe pears. Almonds. And the scent of wild forest honey.

The golden one

The last one, Golden Delicious, is made from apples and has spent a year in oak barrels. And oh what a difference that year makes. The colour is golden, almost bronze. The aroma is filled with overripe apples, vanilla and honey.

And the taste? It is as if someone has taken the very essence of an Apfelstrudel and poured it into a glass. All three would be perfect as a digestif after a good dinner. But the last one could easily stand on its own. Or, perhaps more accurately, replace dessert altogether.

Happiness

I find myself slowly sipping it while admiring the sunset over the vineyards. The day has taken me from Zweigelt and Merlot to apricots, pears and apples. From wine to Edelbrand. And now, with the last golden drops in my glass, I enjoy the fact that I am not in any particular hurry to go anywhere.

Sometimes, life is almost perfect.