Blank Canvas Grüner Veltliner 2024 from Marlborough’s Axehouse Vineyard is a richly textural, food‑loving white that puts a New Zealand twist on this classic Austrian variety. This Blank Canvas Gruner Veltliner 2024 is packed with lemon and grapefruit pith, ripe pear and stone fruit, layered with fennel, white pepper and a chalky, savoury edge. The palate is dry, medium‑plus in weight and gently creamy through the middle, with bright acidity and a long, mineral finish that feels structured rather than simple.

It’s brilliant with schnitzel, roast pork, richer white‑fish dishes and Asian‑inspired plates built around citrus, herbs and a bit of spice, where that weight and peppery lift stand up to bolder flavours. It also works a treat with roast chicken, creamy pasta and firm cheeses, making it a seriously versatile alternative to Chardonnay for the dinner table.

For Aussie drinkers who like their whites characterful and food‑friendly, this is a cracking option – powerful yet refreshing, with enough texture and spice to keep every glass interesting.