Austria is renowned worldwide for its white wines. Nevertheless, around 30 percent of its vineyards are planted with red grape varieties. These are primarily found in Burgenland, but Lower Austria also boasts some notable “red wine islands.” Among the 14 red wine grape varieties classified as quality wine, the trio of Zweigelt, Blaufränkisch and St. Laurent stands out as distinctly Austrian and full of potential. Both the growing interest in autochthonous grape varieties and the comparatively cool climate work to their advantage. While summers can bring hot spells, sufficient rainfall and cool nights during the ripening phase ensure the freshness that makes Austrian wines so highly sought after.
In Burgenland …
Burgenland, Austria’s easternmost wine region, encompasses six winegrowing areas, all with a high proportion of red wines. In the north, Lake Neusiedl separates the two origins Leithaberg DAC and Neusiedlersee DAC, which, despite their close proximity, have markedly different characteristics. Neusiedlersee DAC wines come from the lake’s eastern shore and are known for Zweigelt, which is also available with the designation Reserve. Leithaberg DAC wines thrive along the Leitha Mountains on the western shore and can be either red or white – with red always meaning Blaufränkisch here.
From Blaufränkischland to Eisenberg
Further southeast lies Mittelburgenland. Known as Blaufränkischland, this area exclusively classifies Blaufränkisch as an origin wine, available in the three categories Mittelburgenland DAC, Mittelburgenland DAC with vineyard designation, and Mittelburgenland DAC Reserve. A bit farther south brings you to the rolling hills of Eisenberg. Under Eisenberg DAC, Welschriesling may also be marketed, but as a red wine, only Blaufränkisch is permitted.
Lower Austria in red
Significant red wine regions in Lower Austria include Carnuntum and the Thermenregion. Both border Burgenland to the south and Vienna to the north and northeast. Carnuntum’s red origin wines include Zweigelt and Blaufränkisch, and blends may contain up to one-third other quality grape varieties. In the Thermenregion, in keeping with its history as a center of Cistercian monks, Pinot Noir and the similarly Burgundian-style St. Laurent are the most important red wine varieties. These, along with several white wine varieties, are reserved for the category of single-vineyard wines. Ortsweine (village wines) may also include Zweigelt, while Blauer Portugieser is permitted in Gebietsweine (regional wines).
In peak condition
Austria’s red wine vintages since 2016 have been extraordinarily kind to its winemakers, crowned by the historically outstanding years 2017, 2019, and 2021, which captivate with an ideal balance of fruit, freshness, and charm.
For those seeking more power in their glass, the robust and complex 2018, 2020, and 2022 vintages are excellent choices. These vintages have developed beautifully, retained their characteristic freshness, and are in peak condition – perfect companions to a variety of dishes or simply to be enjoyed on their own. These wines are easily recognized by their EU-protected designation of origin, marked by the red-white-red band on the capsule top and the official quality wine check number on the label.
