The Gut Oggau family, the biodynamic estate and the character of Timotheus are all well established by now. What changes with each vintage is the temperament of the wine itself, and 2018 was a notably warm and generous year across Burgenland. The Pannonian heat that rolls in from the Hungarian plain was in full effect, extending the growing season and producing fruit with exceptional ripeness and concentration. It is the kind of vintage that suits Timotheus well. He is already the fuller, weightier figure among the parents' tier, and in 2018 he leans into that stature without losing the mineral backbone and acid precision that define this cuvée.

The winemaking follows the same rigorous template. Grüner Veltliner and Weissburgunder from 40-year-old vines on limestone, slate and gravel above the village of Oggau. One third of the grapes ferment on skins for three weeks, the rest are direct-pressed, and the two parts are blended and aged for twelve months in used 500-litre barrels without batonnage. Nothing added, nothing removed.

The result is a rich and aromatic white wine with a complex and deep character. Expect notes of wild flowers, tropical fruits and citrus touches. On the palate it is dry, with a pleasant structure and hints of spicy white pepper. Seven years of bottle age have softened the texture and brought secondary notes of quince, hazelnut and dry honey into the foreground. Apple ring and pear skin notes sit alongside a chewy, dense depth. The balance of fruit and texture is weighted towards the grippier side, but this is a wine that ages beautifully. The 2018 is Timotheus at his most hedonistic. Decant generously and enjoy with a serious meal.