The past decade has brought a durable positive shift in Austria’s perception of rosé wine. Initially, it was just a handful of producers who began to explore the sensory breadth of rosé with increasingly exciting expressions – supported by open-minded critics and wine enthusiasts who recognised the emergence of a new movement. Eventually, the hospitality industry began to appreciate these efforts – and above all, the results – paving the way for rosé’s new success story.
Three varieties in focus
Austria’s winegrowing regions offer diverse terroirs for rosé, spanning multiple climate zones and encouraging a wide range of styles. In addition, the country boasts three native grape varieties – Zweigelt, Sankt Laurent and Blaufränkisch – that impress tasters with their fine fruit aromas and great potential. And of course, these are complemented by international varieties such as Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon.
From islands and enclaves
As Austria’s largest winegrowing region, Niederösterreich has much to offer in the rosé category. In Carnuntum and the Thermenregion, red grape varieties have long played a central role and now also deliver joy in multiple shades of pink.
The Weinviertel, best known for Grüner Veltliner, also features numerous red wine ‘islands’ – microclimates where Zweigelt, in particular, shines as a crisp and fresh rosé. Similarly, one will find vibrant pink wines –sometimes even orange wines – in regions such as Kamptal, Kremstal, Traisental, Wagram and the Wachau.
Tradition as a DAC origin
In Burgenland, winegrowers vinify outstanding rosés from the red wine powerhouses Blaufränkisch and Zweigelt. In the Rosalia region, rosé has even earned DAC status and must be made exclusively from Blaufränkisch. In the Steiermark, the local variety Blauer Wildbacher has enjoyed DAC status for many years as Schilcher – a refreshing specialty of the Weststeiermark with deep regional roots.
Rosé or Blanc de Noirs?
While sparkling rosé remains a popular alternative, the Blanc de Noirs style is increasingly gaining attention. Under the designation Sekt Austria (Austrian sparkling wine of protected origin), these wines can be made from all fourteen approved red Qualitätswein grape varieties. As a result, rosé in Austria ranges from light and easy-drinking to elegant and full-bodied. Orange wines and many exciting sparkling variants have also gained a loyal following. Rosé is the culinary embodiment of summer itself and proves to be a versatile companion to a dazzlingly wide array of dishes.
All the grape varieties highlighted above are native to Austria, and many rosé wines produced from them carry EU-protected designations of origin, which you can always spot by the red-white-red capsule tops and the official Qualitätswein control number on the label.
To delve deeper into the subject, visit austrianvineyards.com.
