An Introduction to Austrian Wines: The Country’s Top 5 Wines to Try This Summer

Austrian wines are best known around the world for their quality and innovative features. It thus seems no wonder that at the beginning of 2024, Austria’s wine exports climbed to a new record level of around 248,2 million euros which translates to around 65,3 million litres of exported wine. Let’s find out what the hype is all about.

‘Small is beautiful’ – this motto best describes Austrian wine if you look at it from an international perspective. The small Alpine country produces rare and interesting wines that are sure to please any demanding palate. Austrian wines can be found on every great wine list right now and more and more wine experts appreciate them.

So, what makes Austrian wines so special? First and foremost, the country’s long tradition in winemaking surely plays a big factor as grapevines have been cultivated here in the same matter for thousands of years. Ideal geological and climatic elements further offer the best conditions for making distinctive, tasty and authentic wines with character and personality. It also needs to be noted that Austrian vintners seem to have understood what makes wines great today: combining traditional viticulture with modern processes. The outcomes are diverse, high-quality wines without compromise. Wine connoisseurs can find everything that their heart desires in Austria: from lively, light-bodied wines to opulent white wines, fruity or full-bodied red wines, as well as elegant, sweet wines.

So, on your next trip to Austria, why not head to a wine-tasting session, plan a nice dinner that is complemented with regional wines or a visit to one of Austria’s traditional wine estates? Any of these activities will make a trip to the Alpine country a special treat. To get you inspired, we have handpicked the top five Austrian wines to try this summer, from fruity-fresh white wines to delicious reds and innovative sparkling wines.

Photo: Österreich Werbung / Herzberger

GRÜNER VELTLINER

Grüner Veltliner, often dubbed Austria’s white wine gem, boasts a long and storied history that dates back centuries. Native to Austria, this versatile grape variety thrives in the country’s unique climate and soil conditions, resulting in wines that are both distinctive and exceptional. The terroir of Austria plays a crucial role in shaping the character of Grüner Veltliner wines. From the mineral-rich soils of the Wachau region to the cool climate of Kamptal, each vineyard imparts its own unique terroir-driven nuances to the final bottle.

One of the hallmarks of Grüner Veltliner is its vibrant acidity, balanced by notes of green apple, white pepper, and citrus. These flavours come together harmoniously to create a wine that is refreshing, zesty, and incredibly food-friendly. Pair it with seafood or spicy dishes for a delightful culinary experience.

RIESLING

Riesling, a renowned white wine grape variety, has carved its own niche in the world of wine enthusiasts. Among the diverse Riesling productions, Austrian Rieslings stand out for their exceptional quality and unique characteristics. Let’s dive into the realm of Austrian Riesling to uncover the secrets and delights that this exquisite wine has to offer.

Originating from the stunning vineyards of Austria, Riesling grapes thrive in the favourable climate and fertile soils of the region. The terroir imparts a distinctive flavour profile to Austrian Rieslings, reflecting the essence of the land and the expertise of the winemakers. Riesling, known for its aromatic profile and balanced acidity, is a beloved choice among wine enthusiasts. This classic Austrian wine exhibits blossoming floral aromas, ripe peach flavours, and a refreshing finish. Whether enjoyed on its own or alongside Asian cuisine, Riesling never fails to impress.

Photo: Österreich Werbung / Wiesenhofer

SEKT (SPARKLING WINE)

Sekt, Austria’s sparkling wine, exudes sophistication. This effervescent beauty, often referred to as the Austrian equivalent of Champagne, embodies elegance and sophistication in every bubble. Crafted with precision and passion, Sekt encapsulates the essence of Austrian winemaking heritage.

Originating in the picturesque vineyards of Austria, Sekt embodies a rich history dating back centuries. Made predominantly from indigenous grape varieties such as Grüner Veltliner and Welschriesling, Sekt captures the unique terroir of the Austrian landscape. Each sip tells a story of tradition, innovation, and unwavering dedication to craftsmanship.

Crafting Sekt is a meticulous process that requires skill, patience, and expertise. From hand-harvesting the finest grapes to the precise méthode traditionelle used for secondary fermentation, every step in the production of Sekt is a labour of love. The result is a sparkling masterpiece that sparkles with effervescence and charm, ready to elevate any occasion. Crafted using traditional methods, Sekt offers a delightful effervescence, notes of green apple, and a crisp, dry finish. Celebrate special moments with a glass of Austrian Sekt and elevate your experience with every sip.

BLAUFRÄNKISCH

Blaufränkisch is a red wine grape variety that has been gaining recognition for its exceptional quality and unique flavour profile. This grape variety thrives in the moderate climate and mineral-rich soils of Austria, producing wines that are known for their deep colour, vibrant acidity, and pronounced fruit flavours. Blaufränkisch, a rich and robust red wine, showcases dark fruit flavours, spicy undertones, and a velvety texture. The versatility of Blaufränkisch wines makes them a delightful addition to any dining experience. Whether paired with savoury roasted meats, hearty stews, or even a selection of aged cheeses, Blaufränkisch wines elevate the flavours of the dish and create a harmonious culinary pairing that is sure to impress even the most discerning palate.

In recent years, Blaufränkisch wines have been garnering attention in the international stage, with wine enthusiasts and critics alike praising their exceptional quality and distinctive character. This newfound popularity has propelled Blaufränkisch to the forefront of the Austrian wine scene, solidifying its place as a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by wine lovers around the world.

Photo: Österreich Werbung / Viennaslide

ZWEIGELT

Zweigelt, a lesser-known gem of Austrian winemaking, stands out for its unique characteristics and flavours that captivate the palate of wine enthusiasts worldwide. This versatile red wine grape variety, created by Fritz Zweigelt in 1922, has since gained recognition for its exceptional quality. Zweigelt wines are celebrated for their vibrant red colour and enticing aromas of dark fruits, such as black cherries and plums, with a hint of spice that adds depth to each sip. The palate is treated to a harmonious blend of fruitiness and acidity, creating a balanced and elegant tasting experience that lingers delightfully on the tongue.

When it comes to food pairings, Zweigelt wines truly shine. Their versatility allows them to complement a wide range of dishes, from roasted duck and grilled lamb to hearty stews and aged cheeses. The fruity notes of Zweigelt beautifully enhance the flavours of savoury and rich foods, creating a symphony of taste that elevates any dining experience.

Photo: Österreich Werbung / Himsl