Austrian Wines

Austria produces some of Europe’s most precise and characterful wines, shaped by cool climates, diverse soils and a strong focus on native grape varieties. While its winemaking history stretches back thousands of years, modern Austrian wine is defined by quality, transparency and regional identity. This collection highlights Austria’s strengths across both white and red wines, offering styles that are fresh, expressive and highly food friendly.

Austrian wine laws are among the strictest in Europe, helping ensure consistency and authenticity across regions. Producers place a strong emphasis on vineyard expression, with many wines reflecting their origins clearly rather than relying on heavy oak or excessive ripeness.

Key Austrian Wine Regions

Lower Austria is the country’s largest and most important wine producing area. Within it, regions such as Wachau are internationally recognised for dry white wines, particularly Grüner Veltliner. These wines are valued for their purity, minerality and ability to age gracefully.

Vienna is unique among world capitals in having vineyards within its city boundaries. Wines from this area often combine freshness with approachability, using varieties such as Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, Pinot Blanc and Zweigelt. Soil differences across the city influence whether whites or reds perform best.

Burgenland is best known for red wine production, particularly Zweigelt and St Laurent. Warmer conditions and richer soils allow for deeper, more structured styles, while still maintaining balance and freshness.

Styria is primarily associated with white wines, producing aromatic and lively styles with pronounced acidity. However, Zweigelt and St Laurent are also grown here, contributing to Austria’s growing reputation for elegant reds.

Grape Varieties and Styles

Grüner Veltliner is Austria’s flagship grape and the most widely planted variety in the country. Typically dry and crisp, it often shows flavours of green apple, citrus and white pepper, with a mineral edge that makes it extremely versatile with food.

Zweigelt is Austria’s most important red grape, producing wines with soft tannins, juicy red fruit and excellent drinkability. St Laurent offers a slightly darker, more structured profile, while Pinot Blanc and Riesling provide refined white wine options with freshness and depth.

This collection also includes Austrian liqueurs, reflecting the country’s broader drinks tradition alongside its wines.

FAQs

What wine is Austria best known for?
Austria is best known for Grüner Veltliner, a dry white wine valued for its freshness, spice and versatility.

Are Austrian wines mostly white?
White wines dominate production, but Austria also produces high quality red wines, particularly from Zweigelt and St Laurent.

Do Austrian wines pair well with food?
Yes, Austrian wines are highly food friendly thanks to their natural acidity, balance and moderate alcohol levels.

Is Vienna really a wine producing city?
Yes, Vienna is one of the only capital cities in the world with vineyards located within its city limits.