Wineries of Austria

Austria is an increasingly important central European wine-producing country in terms of quality and innovation.... Read more

Wineries of Austria

Austria is an increasingly important central European wine-producing country in terms of quality and innovation. When compared to its immediate neighbors, the country has taken the lead in creating signature styles of wine that are not only appreciated within its borders but are also highly regarded throughout the world. Traditionally, Austrian wine has been most influenced by the styles and laws of Germany. Its appellation system more or less follows the German nomenclature based on the must weight (sugar level) of the grapes. But the country has also excelled in creating some of its own specialties like Ausbruch, Strohwein and especially the ones labeled 'Trocken' (dry) that have become very fashionable and are much sought-after. The quality conscious producers from the highly regarded region of Wachau have also created their own unique styles that appear on labels as Steinfeder, Federspiel and Smaragd. All of Austria's wine regions are concentrated on the east with Niederosterreich (Lower Austria) being the most important. The cooler regions produce the best wines from the country's iconic variety Grüner Veltliner, most famous as a dry and stylistic wine that has brought glory to the local wine industry. Welschriesling is mostly used for the dessert wines. Riesling, Chardonnay, and Gewurztraminer are other important white varieties. The far eastern vineyards that experience the maximum sunlight and warmth due to the warm winds from the Pannonian plains across the border are the source of best red wines from Zweigelt, Blaufränkisch, Pinot Noir and Portugieser.