Weinviertel

Weinviertel is the largest wine region in Austria and is situated between the Danube River and the Czech border in the extreme northeast of the country. The region is part of the state of Niederösterreich (Lower Austria), extending in a crescent shape around the south of Vienna, from the north bank of the Danube to the border with the Czech Republic to the north and Slovakia to the east.

More information about Wienviertel

Weinviertel was the first Austrian wine region to establish a DAC (Districtus Austriae Controllatus) for Riesling and Grüner Veltliner wines. DAC is a system that ensures the origin and quality of wines from specific regions. Since 2009, Weinviertel also has a Weinviertel DAC Reserve designation, indicating wines of even higher quality and specific regional characteristics.

Niederösterreich, encompassing Weinviertel, is the largest wine region in Austria. It extends from the Danube to the northern border with the Czech Republic and eastward to Slovakia. Despite its size, Niederösterreich has sometimes been overshadowed by more famous regions like Wachau and Kamptal.

The terrain in Weinviertel is distinct from regions like Wachau, with less steep hills. The soil is characterized by loess, a fertile, wind-blown sediment that is rich and clay-like. The loess layer in Weinviertel, formed during the Ice Ages, is the largest in central Europe. Its high lime content contributes to wines with strong aromatic power and distinctive character.

The combination of the unique loess soil and climate in Weinviertel results in wines with a strong aromatic profile. The wines are known for their characterful and expressive qualities. The Weinviertel region's commitment to Grüner Veltliner, the establishment of DACs, and the influence of its distinct terroir contribute to the region's prominence in Austria's winemaking landscape. Exploring the wines from Weinviertel provides enthusiasts with an opportunity to experience the diversity and quality of Austrian wines.

What grapes are used in Wienviertel?

In Weinviertel, Grüner Veltliner is the predominant and most widely planted grape variety. Grüner Veltliner is a versatile white grape that thrives in the region's unique terroir, characterized by loess-rich soils and a favorable climate. The grape is known for producing wines with a range of styles, from crisp and refreshing to fuller-bodied and complex.

While Grüner Veltliner takes the spotlight in Weinviertel, there is also cultivation of other grape varieties to a lesser extent. These may include white varieties such as Welschriesling, which is known for its fresh and fruity character, and occasionally, varieties like Muskateller (Muscat) for aromatic wines.

However, it's important to note that Grüner Veltliner truly defines the identity of Weinviertel wines. The grape's adaptability to the local conditions and the winemakers' expertise in working with it contribute to the region's reputation for producing high-quality, distinctive white wines. Grüner Veltliner from Weinviertel is often recognized by its characteristic white pepper notes and a vibrant expression of the region's terroir.