Franz Hofstätter is an Austrian sommelier and wine professional whose personal project, Wabi-Sabi, takes its name from the Japanese aesthetic philosophy that finds beauty in imperfection – a fitting lens for a man who has spent decades immersed in Austria's wine world. Working with numerous renowned winemakers across Austria under the Tastes of Austria umbrella, Franz built an exceptional depth of knowledge long before his own label took shape. The Grape ResetLiving

Wabi-Sabi is split into two distinct categories: white-label wines made in collaboration with other growers, and black-label wines produced entirely from vineyards Franz manages himself, in his own low-tech cellar. Based in the Danube river region of Lower Austria, the project draws on soils of limestone, gravel, loess, and conglomerate, working with varieties from Grüner Veltliner and Riesling to Blaufränkisch and Neuburger. All wines follow a strictly artisanal approach – native yeast, low SO₂, no additives – rooted in a genuine love of terroir rather than trend. These are wines made by someone who has earned the knowledge to make them. Living + 2