From the Vineyards of Austria
Embark on a journey through Austria's diverse and esteemed wine regions, where tradition meets innovation to produce wines of exceptional character and elegance.
An Exploration of Terroir
Niederösterreich is Austria's largest wine-growing region, famous for its majestic Wachau valley, Kamptal, and Kremstal. This region is the heartland of Grüner Veltliner, producing crisp, peppery wines that epitomize Austrian white wine. Rieslings from these terraced vineyards on steep slopes are equally celebrated for their purity and mineral intensity.
Key Varietals: Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, Zweigelt.
Bordering Hungary, Burgenland is characterized by the vast Neusiedlersee lake, which creates a unique microclimate ideal for noble rot wines (Trockenbeerenauslese) and full-bodied red wines. Blaufränkisch is the region's flagship red grape, yielding powerful, spicy wines, while Zweigelt offers softer, fruit-driven expressions. The Seewinkel area is particularly renowned for its sweet wines.
Key Varietals: Blaufränkisch, Zweigelt, Welschriesling (sweet wines).
The "Green Heart of Austria," Styria is known for its rolling, often steep, hillsides and distinctive Sauvignon Blanc. The volcanic soils and cool climate create intensely aromatic and vibrant white wines, often compared to those from the Loire Valley. Schilcher, a unique rosé from the Blauer Wildbacher grape, is a regional specialty.
Key Varietals: Sauvignon Blanc, Welschriesling, Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc).
Vienna is the only capital city in the world with significant vineyards within its city limits. The unique Gemischter Satz (field blend) is the city's signature wine, where multiple grape varietals are grown, harvested, and pressed together. These urban vineyards offer breathtaking views and represent a cherished tradition of Viennese culture, often enjoyed in local 'Heuriger' wine taverns.
Key Varietals: Gemischter Satz (diverse blend), Grüner Veltliner, Riesling.
Faces of Austrian Wine
Elisa Mayer
Mayer's Vineyards, Wachau
“Our wines tell the story of our land, nurtured through generations and perfected with passion.”
Elisa represents the fourth generation of winemakers in her family, a pioneer in sustainable viticulture in the Wachau. Her Grüner Veltliner and Rieslings are renowned for their purity and expression of terroir, garnering international acclaim.
Thomas Bauer
Bauer Winery, Burgenland
“Innovation in harmony with nature is key to unlocking the true potential of our Blaufränkisch.”
Thomas is celebrated for his bold, organic Blaufränkisch wines from Burgenland. He passionately advocates for biodynamic practices, believing they enhance the depth and complexity of his red varietals, pushing the boundaries of Austrian red wine.
Anna Schmidt
Schmidt Estates, Southern Styria
“Every slope, every vintage, offers a unique opportunity to create a wine that truly speaks of Styria.”
Anna's specialty lies in crafting exquisite Sauvignon Blancs that capture the vibrant minerality and aromatic intensity of Styrian terroir. A keen advocate for regional identity, her wines consistently win awards for their crisp elegance and distinctive character.