What does DAC stand for in wine?

Let’s explore the DAC world of Austria!

The Qualitätswein designation in Austria authorizes 40 authorized grape varieties and can originate from nine generic wine regions (what I called areas in the most famous wine regions of Austria) named after administrative regions, as well as specific wine regions within these areas.

The main generic wine regions (or areas) are Niederösterreich (Lower Austria), Burgenland, Steiermark (Styria), and Wien (Vienna).

Currently, Austria has 16 specific wine regions.

Within the generic wine region of “Niederösterreich,” there are eight specific regions: Wachau, Kremstal, Kamptal, Traisental, Wagram, Weinviertel, Carnuntum, and Thermenregion.

The generic wine region of “Burgenland” includes five specific regions: Neusiedlersee, Leithaberg, Rosalia, Mittelburgenland, and Eisenberg.

The generic wine region of “Steiermark” has three specific regions: Vulkanland Steiermark, Südsteiermark, and Weststeiermark.

“Wien” (Vienna) is a unique case as it is both a generic and specific wine region.

What does DAC stand for in wine?

Qualitätswein that fulfills the requirements established by the National Committee, as specified by the Minister of Agriculture, can be labeled as “Districtus Austriae Controllatus” or “DAC.” This means a DAC wine is always a Qualitätswein.

This designation must always be accompanied by the corresponding defined area, as stated in the regulations. It is permissible to use a smaller geographical entity name rather than the entire wine region.

To become a DAC, the region must apply to the National Committee and the Minister of Agriculture. The producers within a particular region must find a consensus on one or more grape varieties and a specific style of wine, which will showcase the terroir of their respective region and hence accurately represent the region. After the application is approved, the regulations written in the DAC proposal become law through a ministerial decree.

Only wines that adhere to the specified style are allowed to use the appellation’s name, with other wines being required to use the state’s name instead.

Variations in DAC wine designations

For many wines of origin, a three-tier system is often used: Gebietswein (equivalent to regional AOP), Ortswein (equivalent to communal AOP), and Riedenwein (single vineyard wine).

For Gebietswein, the typical wine style of the region has already been defined, ensuring that customers receive what they expect under this designation. For dry white wines in this category, a certain lightness, freshness, or fruity note is generally expected. However, in some cases, Gebietswein starts at a higher level.

EXAMPLE : Leithaberg DAC

Between Gebietswein and Riedenwein lies Ortswein. It should have a bit more body and complexity than Gebietswein, but above all, it should exhibit a typical character for wines from that specific commune. (like in France : a Gevrey-Chambertin will taste differently than a Pommard)

The wines are labeled with the name of the cadastral commune or Großlage, which combines several cadastral communes if it is more appropriate than labeling individual unknown communes

EXAMPLE : Südsteiermark DAC Kitzeck-Sausal

As the most limited in terms of origin, Riedenweine naturally occupy the pinnacle of quality within each area. Riedenweine must be strategically positioned as complex wines, aged for a long time, and possessing corresponding aging potential.

EXAMPLE : Kamptal DAC Ried Zöbinger Heiligenstein

Austria’s new vineyard classification system was officially announced on August 24, 2023, and became law on September 1, 2023. This makes Austria the first country outside of France to have a nationwide, legal vineyard site classification system.

Under the new system, the best vineyards in Austria can be designated as Erste Lage (Premier Cru) or Große Lage (Grand Cru). This classification is based on a number of factors, including the vineyard’s soil type, aspect, elevation, and microclimate.

The new vineyard classification system is a significant step forward for the Austrian wine industry. It will help to raise the profile of Austrian wines on the international market and make it easier for consumers to identify high-quality wines.

What are the DACs in Austria today?

The Regional Wine Committees were established in 2001 with the objective of enhancing sales coordination, developing characteristic wine styles for regions, and collaborating with the Austrian Wine Marketing Board for marketing and the positioning of the wine region.

The idea of “DAC” (Districtus Austriae Controllatus) was introduced the same year, and the first DAC to be launched was the Weinviertel DAC in 2002.

The Mittelburgendland DAC was the second to be introduced in 2006, followed by Traisental DAC, Kremstal DAC, and Kamptal DAC from 2007 to 2009.

Leithaberg DAC and Eisenberg DAC were added in 2010.

The Neusiedlersee DAC for Zweigelt wines was created in 2012, and the Wiener Gemischter Satz became the ninth DAC in 2013.

In 2018, four more DACs were introduced: Rosalia DAC, Weststeiermark DAC, Südsteiermark DAC, and Vulkenland DAC.

In 2019, two additional DACs were launched, bringing the total number of DACs to 15, which includes Carnuntum DAC and Wachau DAC.

In 2020, Ruster Ausbruch became a DAC! (A DAC within a DAC, seeing as Rust belongs to the Leithaberg region)

Last but not least, Wagram was declared a DAC in 2022 and Thermenregion in 2023!

In the next paragraph, you will find some specificities for each DAC in order to shine next time you go to Austria!

Wachau DAC

In the Wachau DAC (1344ha) system, the different variations have specific grape varieties, vinification (or winemaking) methods, and flavor profiles.

Gebietswein can be made from Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, Neuburger, Muskateller, Sauvignon Blanc, Traminer, Frühroter Veltliner, Müller-Thurgau, Muskat Ottonel, Roter Veltliner, Gemischter Satz, Pinot Noir, St. Laurent, Zweigelt, or their blends.

Ortswein can be produced from Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, Neuburger, Muskateller, Sauvignon Blanc, or Traminer.

They originate from various locations such as Loiben, Dürnstein, Weißenkirchen, Joching, Wösendorf, St. Michael, Spitz, Gut am Steg, Viessling, Elsarn, Mühldorf, Spitzer Graben, Schwallenbach, Willendorf, Groisbach, Aggsbach, Arnsdorf, Rührsdorf, Rossatz, Unterbergern, Mauternbach, Mautern, and Baumgarten.

Riedenwein is limited to Grüner Veltliner and Riesling. In terms of vinification, Riedenwein does not allow any form of enrichment.

Ortswein and Riedenwein typically have minimal or no oak influence on the palate.

Finally, it is mandatory for these wines to be harvested manually.

Kremstal DAC

Kremstal DAC, established since the 2007 vintage, focuses on two main grape varieties: Grüner Veltliner and Riesling. Within the Kremstal DAC category, there are various variations available.

Kremstal DAC wines can be labeled with the Kremstal designation. Kremstal DAC wines with the indication of the specific commune are also allowed. Furthermore, there is the option of Kremstal DAC wines with both the commune indication and the designation of the specific cru, which requires the allocation of a state control number from January 1st of the year following the harvest.

Additionally, there is Kremstal DAC Reserve, which requires a state control number from July 1st of the year following the harvest.

The minimum alcohol content for Kremstal DAC is 12.0% vol, while Kremstal DAC with the indication of the commune has the same requirement. For Kremstal DAC with the indication of the commune and the designation of the specific cru, the minimum alcohol content is 12.5% vol. Kremstal DAC Reserve has a higher minimum alcohol content of 13.0% vol. These wines are characterized as dry, without residual sugar.

In terms of taste profile, Kremstal DAC, Kremstal DAC with the commune indication, and Kremstal DAC with the commune indication and the designation of the specific cru should not exhibit dominant botrytis influence. They should be well-balanced and reflect the typical density of the indicated vintage.

Kremstal DAC Reserve, on the other hand, displays a fuller-bodied style with a distinct character specific to the region. It has a dense and long-lasting palate, allowing for a slight presence of botrytis and oak notes.

Regarding labeling requirements, the origin appellation, and if applicable, the mention of “Reserve,” must be indicated on the front label (in the absence of a back label). It is mandatory to display the harvest year on the label.

Kamptal DAC

Since the 2008 vintage, Kamptal DAC has been dedicated to two primary grape varieties: Grüner Veltliner and Riesling.

Within the Kamptal DAC category, there are different variations available.

Kamptal DAC wines can be labeled with the Kamptal designation, while Kamptal DAC with the indication of the specific commune is also permitted. For Kamptal DAC wines with the indication of the commune and the designation of the specific cru, a state control number is required from March 1st of the year following the harvest. Additionally, Kamptal DAC Reserve necessitates a state control number from July 1st of the year following the harvest.

The minimum alcohol content for Kamptal DAC is 11.5% vol., while Kamptal DAC with the indication of the commune requires a minimum of 12.0% vol. Kamptal DAC with the indication of the commune and the designation of the specific cru has a slightly higher minimum alcohol content of 12.5% vol. Kamptal DAC Reserve has the highest requirement with a minimum of 13.0% vol. These wines are dry, without residual sugar.

In terms of taste profile, Kamptal DAC, Kamptal DAC with the commune indication, and Kamptal DAC with the commune indication and the designation of the specific cru should not exhibit dominant botrytis influence. They should be well-balanced and reflect the typical density of the indicated vintage.

Kamptal DAC Reserve, however, offers a fuller-bodied style with a distinct character specific to the region. It presents a dense and long-lasting palate, allowing for a slight presence of botrytis and oak notes.

Regarding labeling requirements, the origin appellation, and if applicable, the mention of “Reserve,” must be indicated on the front label (in the absence of a back label). It is mandatory to display the harvest year on the label.

Traisental DAC

Since the 2006 vintage, Traisental DAC has been dedicated to two primary grape varieties: Grüner Veltliner and Riesling.

Within the Traisental DAC category, there are different variations available. Traisental DAC wines can be labeled with the Traisental designation, while Traisental DAC with the indication of the specific commune is also permitted. For Traisental DAC wines with the indication of the commune and the designation of the specific cru, a state control number is required from January 1st of the year following the harvest. Additionally, Traisental DAC Reserve necessitates a state control number from July 1st of the year following the harvest.

The minimum alcohol content for Traisental DAC is 11.5% vol., while Traisental DAC with the indication of the commune requires a minimum of 12.0% vol. Traisental DAC with the indication of the commune and the designation of the specific cru has a slightly higher minimum alcohol content of 12.5% vol. Traisental DAC Reserve has the highest requirement with a minimum of 13.0% vol. These wines are dry, without residual sugar.

In terms of taste profile, Traisental DAC, Traisental DAC with the commune indication, and Traisental DAC with the commune indication and the designation of the specific cru should not exhibit dominant botrytis influence. They should be well-balanced and reflect the typical density of the indicated vintage.

Traisental DAC Reserve, however, offers a fuller-bodied style with a distinct character specific to the region. It presents a dense and long-lasting palate, allowing for a slight presence of botrytis and oak notes.

Regarding labeling requirements, the origin appellation, and if applicable, the mention of “Reserve,” must be indicated on the front label (in the absence of a back label). It is mandatory to display the harvest year on the label.

Wagram DAC

On February 2, 2022, the Austrian Wine Marketing Board announced the approval of Wagram DAC, a newly established wine region classified under Districtus Austriae Controllatus (DAC).

Wagram, the recently endorsed DAC wine region, has implemented a quality system similar to other Austrian wine regions.

This system comprises three categories: Gebietswein, Ortswein, and Riedenwein.

Gebietswein wines can be produced from thirteen grape varieties, while Ortswein is limited to seven approved varieties. Riedenweine, the highest-quality wines, are exclusively made from Grüner Veltliner, Roter Veltliner, and Riesling grapes sourced from officially recognized vineyards.

As per DAC regulations, all DAC white wines, regardless of category, must be dry and devoid of pronounced oak flavors.

Weinviertel DAC

Weinviertel DAC was established as an appellation since the 2002 vintage, focusing exclusively on the Grüner Veltliner grape variety.

This designation requires obtaining a state control number starting from January 1st of the year following the harvest. For a more elevated expression, Weinviertel DAC Reserve was introduced in the 2009 vintage, and the state control number application begins from March 15th of the subsequent year.

The minimum alcohol content for Weinviertel DAC wines is set at 12.0% vol., ensuring a certain level of maturity and flavor intensity. In contrast, Weinviertel DAC Reserve demands a higher minimum alcohol content of 13.0% vol., indicating a more robust and full-bodied character.

When it comes to residual sugar, Weinviertel DAC wines must have a maximum of 6 g/l, ensuring a dry profile. On the other hand, Weinviertel DAC Reserve is classified as fully dry, with no perceptible residual sugar.

Weinviertel DAC wines are fruity and spicy, with distinct peppery notes. These wines should not exhibit any traces of botrytis or oak influence. However, Weinviertel DAC Reserve, while still dry, embraces a more full-bodied and intense style, allowing for slight notes of botrytis and oak.

Regarding labeling requirements, the appellation of origin, including the mention “DAC,” must be prominently displayed on the label. This ensures that consumers can easily identify and recognize the specific quality and origin of Weinviertel DAC wines.

Carnuntum DAC

Carnuntum DAC exists since the 2019 vintage.

The permitted grape varieties for white wines include Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, and Grüner Veltliner, with blends requiring a minimum composition of two-thirds of these grapes. The remaining portion must consist of grape varieties classified as Qualitätswein.

For red wines, the allowed varieties are Zweigelt and Blaufränkisch, with the same blend composition requirements as white wines.

The Carnuntum DAC designation also uses the three-tier system. Gebietswein represents the regional wine produced in the area. Ortswein, on the other hand, requires the application for a state control number for white wines starting from March 15th and for red wines starting from November 1st of the year following the harvest. Similarly, Riedenwein also necessitates the application for a state control number, but with the same timing as Ortswein.

The minimum alcohol content for red wines in Carnuntum DAC is set at 12.0% vol., ensuring a certain level of maturity and richness in the wines. As for residual sugar, the requirement is to be dry across all styles.

Carnuntum DAC comprises several communes, each encompassing multiple villages. These include Göttlesbrunn, Hainburg, Höflein, Petronell-Carnuntum, Prellenkirchen, and Stixneusiedl. These communes contribute to the unique terroir and characteristics of the wines produced within the Carnuntum DAC appellation.

Thermenregion DAC

The 2023 harvest will mark the introduction of the first DAC wines from the wine-growing region located south of Vienna in Niederösterreich (Lower Austria).

In the Thermenregion DAC, Riedenwein (single-vineyard wine) represents the highest quality tier in the origin pyramid and features prestigious grape varieties such as Zierfandler, Rotgipfler, St. Laurent, Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, and Chardonnay.

The Ortswein (villages wine) occupies the middle tier of the DAC classification and includes the aforementioned varieties as well as Pinot Gris and Zweigelt (Rotburger).

The DAC villages in the Thermenregion are Perchtoldsdorf, Gumpoldskirchen, Tattendorf, Wiener Neustadt, and Bad Vöslau.

Regional wines, labeled as Gebietswein Thermenregion DAC, encompass all the previously mentioned grape varieties along with Neuburger, Gemischter Satz (field blend), and Blauer Portugieser, resulting in a wide range of traditional wines showcasing the region’s diversity.

Neusiedlersee DAC

Neusiedlersee DAC exists since the 2011 vintage, including the administrative district of Neusiedl am See, excluding the communes of Winden and Jois.

The primary grape variety for Neusiedlersee DAC is Zweigelt. However, for Neusiedlersee DAC Reserve, the dominant grape is also Zweigelt or a blend with a minimum of 60% Zweigelt, complemented by indigenous grape varieties as blending partners.

Neusiedlersee DAC and Neusiedlersee DAC Reserve require the application for a state control number, with the former starting from February 1st of the year following the harvest and the latter from February 1st of the second year following the harvest.

Regarding alcohol content, Neusiedlersee DAC wines must have a minimum of 12.0% vol., while Neusiedlersee DAC Reserve requires a slightly higher minimum of 13.0% vol. This ensures a certain level of richness and maturity in the wines.

The residual sugar in Neusiedlersee DAC wines is limited to a maximum of 4 g/l, emphasizing the preference for a dry style.

Neusiedlersee DAC wines are usually fruity and spicy. Maturation can take place in either oak barrels or stainless steel tanks. Neusiedlersee DAC Reserve wines, on the other hand, possess similar characteristics but with a fuller body and undergo aging in traditional large oak barrels.

Leithaberg DAC

Leithaberg DAC is an appellation that encompasses the administrative district of Eisenstadt and its surroundings, including the Freistadt Eisenberg and the municipalities of Jois and Winden, as well as certain Ried vineyards in the municipality of Neusiedl am See.

The grape varieties allowed for Leithaberg DAC wines are Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, Neuburger, Grüner Veltliner, or a blend of these white grape varieties, along with Blaufränkisch for red wines.

For white wines, the application for a state control number is required from May 1st of the year following the harvest. In contrast, red wines must undergo mandatory aging in oak barrels, and the state control number is obtained from May 1st of the second year following the harvest.

The minimum alcohol content for Leithaberg DAC wines is 12.5% vol., ensuring a certain level of richness and structure in the wines.

Both white and red wines are dry (residual sugar content of less than 2.5 g/L)

Leithaberg DAC wines are spicy, elegant, mineral-driven, with minimal to no perceptible wood notes.

Ruster Ausbruch DAC

Rust and Ausbruch hold the distinction of being the oldest wine origin designations in Austria.

In 2020, starting from the 2017 vintage, the free city of Rust was granted its own special wine designation – Ruster Ausbruch DAC – making it the first and only municipality to receive this recognition.

Stylistically, Ruster Ausbruch is similare to Tokaj Aszú, and since 2015, it has been legally compared to Trockenbeerenauslese, necessitating a minimum must weight of 30° KMW.

These wines are crafted with a reductive approach and owe their finesse, balance, and never overpowering character to the unique Ruster Schieferverwitterungsböden, which are slate weathering soils.

Only white grape varieties sourced exclusively from Ruster vineyards form the foundation for this exceptional style of sweet wine, placing it among the finest in the world.

Rosalia DAC

Rosalia DAC and Rosalia DAC Rosé are two appellations that have been established since the 2017 vintage, offering distinct expressions of the region’s wines.

The grape varieties allowed for Rosalia DAC wines are Blaufränkisch and Zweigelt, highlighting the local red grape varieties. In contrast, Rosalia DAC Rosé wines can be produced using one or more red grape varieties classified as Qualitätswein.

Both Rosalia DAC and Rosalia DAC Rosé wines require the application for a state control number, which is obtained from January 1st of the year following the harvest. Additionally, for wines of exceptional quality, the designation Rosalia DAC Reserve can be used, and the state control number is obtained from November 1st of the year following the harvest.

The minimum alcohol content for Rosalia DAC wines is 12.0% vol., ensuring a certain level of richness and body. For Rosalia DAC Reserve wines, the minimum alcohol content is elevated to 13.0% vol., showcasing the region’s ability to produce more powerful and concentrated expressions. Rosalia DAC Rosé wines do not have specific requirements regarding alcohol content.

Rosalia DAC wines are categorized as dry, with a maximum residual sugar content of 4 g/l. Rosalia DAC Reserve wines do not have specific indications regarding residual sugar, allowing for flexibility in winemaking practices. Rosalia DAC Rosé wines are explicitly labeled as dry, highlighting their refreshing and crisp character.

Rosalia DAC wines are fine, fruity, spicy and complex, aromatically speaking. Rosalia DAC Rosé wines exhibit freshness, fruitiness, and a pleasant spiciness.

Mittelburgenland DAC

Mittelburgenland DAC is an appellation that has been established since the 2005 vintage, focusing on the production of wines made from the Blaufränkisch grape variety, which thrives in the region.

For wines labeled as Mittelburgenland DAC, winemakers must apply for a state control number starting from May 1st of the year following the harvest, and the wines can be marketed from August 1st of the same year. If a wine carries the additional designation of a specific vineyard (cru), the application for the state control number begins from July 1st of the year following the harvest, and the wines can be marketed from October 1st of the same year. Furthermore, the appellation also includes Mittelburgenland DAC Reserve wines, which require the application for a state control number starting from January 1st of the second year following the harvest, and the wines can be marketed from March 1st of the same year.

Regarding the minimum alcohol content, Mittelburgenland DAC wines must have a minimum of 12.5% vol. (with a maximum of 13.0% vol.). For Mittelburgenland DAC wines carrying the designation of a specific vineyard (cru), the minimum alcohol content is raised to 13.0% vol. (with a maximum of 13.5% vol.). Mittelburgenland DAC Reserve wines also have a minimum alcohol content of 13.0% vol.

The residual sugar content in Mittelburgenland DAC wines is limited to a maximum of 2.5 g/l, ensuring a predominantly dry profile.

Mittelburgenland DAC wines are full-bodied, fruity with spicy notes.They can be aged in traditional large oak barrels, previously used barrels, or stainless steel tanks, with a minimal or absent influence of oak. Mittelburgenland DAC wines with the additional designation of a specific vineyard (cru) share a similar profile, while Mittelburgenland DAC Reserve wines exhibit notable or dominant notes of oak due to aging in large oak barrels or smaller barrels.

Eisenberg DAC

Eisenberg DAC is an appellation that has been established since the 2009 vintage, focusing on wines made primarily from the Blaufränkisch grape variety, which thrives in the Eisenberg region.

For wines labeled as Eisenberg DAC, winemakers must apply for a state control number starting from August 1st of the year following the harvest, and the wines can be marketed from September 1st of the same year. Additionally, there is Eisenberg DAC Reserve, which requires the application for a state control number starting from February 1st of the second year following the harvest, and the wines can be marketed from March 1st of the same year. Eisenberg DAC Reserve wines are aged in large oak barrels or smaller barrels, adding complexity to the final product.

The minimum alcohol content for Eisenberg DAC wines is 12.5% vol., while Eisenberg DAC Reserve wines have a minimum alcohol content of 13.0% vol. This ensures a certain level of ripeness and richness in the wines.

Eisenberg DAC wines are mostly dry (residual sugar doesn’t exceed of 2.5 g/l)

Eisenberg DAC wines are known for their fruity and mineral characteristics, with a minimal or absent influence of oak. They showcase the unique terroir of the Eisenberg region. On the other hand, Eisenberg DAC Reserve wines exhibit a fruit-forward, mineral, and spicy profile, with a full-bodied structure.

Vulkenland Steiermark DAC

Vulkanland Steiermark DAC is an appellation that has been established since the 2018 vintage. The permitted grape varieties include Welschriesling, Pinot Blanc, Morillon (Chardonnay), Pinot Gris, Riesling, Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains, Sauvignon Blanc, Traminer (Gewürztraminer), and their blends, so that is rather a large palette of grape varieties.

The Vulkanland Steiermark DAC also follows the three-tier system. Gebietswein, which represents the broader regional expression, requires winemakers to apply for a state control number starting from January 15th of the year following the harvest. For Welschriesling, the application starts from December 1st of the harvest year.

Ortswein, representing wines from specific villages or locations, requires the application for a state control number starting from April 1st of the year following the harvest. However, for Klöcher Traminer, the application starts from March 1st of the year following the harvest for the first three years.

There is also Riedenwein, which designates wines from specific vineyard sites, and winemakers can apply for a state control number starting from April 1st of the year following the harvest.

The maximum residual sugar allowed varies depending on the variant. For Gebietswein, the maximum is 4.0 g/l, and Riesling and Traminer must be labeled as “trocken” (dry). For Ortswein, the maximum is also 4.0 g/l, and the same “trocken” designation applies to Riesling and Traminer. However, for Klöcher Traminer, it can also be labeled as “halbtrocken” (off-dry) or without any limit of residual sugar for Prädikatswein. For Riedenwein, the maximum is 4.0 g/l, and Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains and Traminer must be labeled as “trocken.”

In terms of the main grape varieties for Ortswein from specific areas within Vulkanland Steiermark DAC, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Blanc take the spotlight in Oststeiermark, Riegersburg, Kapfenstein, St. Anna, Tieschen, and Straden.

Klöch focuses on Sauvignon Blanc and Traminer, while St. Peter emphasizes Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Blanc.

Südsteiermark DAC

Südsteiermark DAC, southern region of Styria, is established since the 2018 vintage. It allows for the production of wines using various grape varieties, including Welschriesling, Pinot Blanc, Morillon (Chardonnay), Pinot Gris, Riesling, Muscats Blancs à Petits Grains, Sauvignon Blanc, Traminer, and their blends.

The Südsteiermark DAC, also follows the three-tier system. Gebietswein represents the broader regional expression, and winemakers need to apply for a state control number starting from January 15th of the year following the harvest. However, for Welschriesling, the application starts from December 1st of the harvest year. Ortswein designates wines from specific localities, and winemakers can apply for a state control number starting from April 1st of the year following the harvest. Riedenwein represents wines from specific vineyard sites, and the application for a state control number starts from May 1st of the year following the harvest.

The maximum allowed residual sugar content varies depending on the variant. For Gebietswein, it is set at a maximum of 4.0 g/l, and Riesling and Traminer must be labeled as “trocken” (dry). Similarly, for Ortswein, the maximum is also 4.0 g/l, and Riesling and Traminer must be labeled as “trocken.” In the case of Riedenwein, the maximum allowed residual sugar is also 4.0 g/l, and Muscats Blancs à Petits Grains and Traminer must correspond to the “trocken” designation.

When it comes to the main grape varieties for Ortswein from specific areas within Südsteiermark DAC, Kitzeck-Sausal focuses on Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling. Eichberg and Leutschach highlight Sauvignon Blanc and Muscats Blancs à Petits Grains, while Gamlitz and Ehrenhausen emphasize Sauvignon Blanc and Morillon (Chardonnay). These grape varieties showcase the unique terroir and expression of the respective localities within the Südsteiermark region.

Weststeiermark DAC

Weststeiermark DAC, western region of Styria, has been established since the 2018 vintage.

The permitted grape varieties for Weststeiermark DAC include Blauer Wildbacher (known as Schilcher), Welschriesling, Pinot Blanc, Morillon (Chardonnay), Pinot Gris, Riesling, Muscats Blancs à Petits Grains, Sauvignon Blanc, Traminer, and their blends.

The Weststeiermark DAC also follows the three-tier-system. Gebietswein represents the broader regional expression, and winemakers need to apply for a state control number starting from January 15th of the year following the harvest.

However, for Welschriesling and Schilcher, the application starts from December 1st of the harvest year.

Ortswein designates wines from specific localities, and winemakers can apply for a state control number starting from April 1st of the year following the harvest. For Schilcher, the application starts from February 1st of the year following the harvest.

Riedenwein represents wines from specific vineyard sites, and the application for a state control number starts from April 1st of the year following the harvest. For Schilcher, the application also starts from February 1st of the year following the harvest.

The maximum allowed residual sugar content is set at 4.0 g/l for all variants. Riesling and Traminer must correspond to the “trocken” (dry) designation. This ensures that the wines from Weststeiermark DAC reflect the region’s characteristic crisp and dry style. Muscats Blancs à Petits Grains and Traminer in Riedenwein must also correspond to the “trocken” designation.

The main grape varieties for Ortswein from specific areas within Weststeiermark DAC vary. In Ligist, the focus is on Blauer Wildbacher (Schilcher) and Sauvignon Blanc. Stainz and Deutschlandsberg also highlight Blauer Wildbacher (Schilcher) and Sauvignon Blanc. In Eibiswald, Blauer Wildbacher (Schilcher) and Sauvignon Blanc take center stage. These grape varieties exemplify the local character and quality of the wines produced in these specific localities within the Weststeiermark region.

Wiener Gemischter Satz DAC

Wiener Gemischter Satz DAC has been established since the 2013 vintage.

The grape variety used for Gemischter Satz wines is a blend of at least three quality white grape varieties grown together in a vineyard in Vienna. These grapes are harvested and vinified together, creating a harmonious and complex blend. The predominant portion of any single grape variety in the blend cannot exceed 50%, and the third fraction must comprise a minimum of 10%.

Wiener Gemischter Satz DAC offers two variants. The first variant is labeled “sans cru” and does not provide any further geographical indication besides Vienna. These wines can be released for sale starting from December 1st of the harvest year.

The second variant is labeled “avec cru” and includes a more detailed geographical indication. These wines can be released for sale starting from March 1st of the following year. The inclusion of the specific cru designation adds an extra layer of distinction and character to the wines.

Regarding alcohol content, the “sans cru” variant has a maximum limit of 12.5% alcohol by volume, while the “avec cru” variant has a minimum requirement of 12.5% alcohol by volume. This ensures that the wines maintain their balance and integrity while showcasing the unique characteristics of each variant.

In terms of residual sugar, the “sans cru” variant must correspond to the “sec” (dry) taste designation. On the other hand, the “avec cru” variant is not necessarily required to correspond to the “sec” designation, allowing for some variation in sweetness levels.

The profile of the “sans cru” variant emphasizes a wine without any notable wood notes, highlighting the pure expression of the blended grape varieties. The “avec cru” variant does not provide any specific indications regarding the taste profile, leaving it open to interpretation and discovery.

Conclusion : What does DAC stand for in wine?

DAC stands for “Districtus Austriae Controllatus,” which is a designation given to Qualitätswein (quality wine) that meets specific requirements established by the National Committee, as specified by the Minister of Agriculture.

When a wine qualifies as DAC, it means it adheres to the defined area, grape varieties, and style of wine determined by the producers within a particular region. The DAC designation is accompanied by the name of the corresponding area.

There are three main variations within the DAC system: Gebietswein, Ortswein, and Riedenwein. Gebietswein represents regional PDO wines and reflects the typical style of the region. Ortswein corresponds to communal PDO wines, showcasing the typical character of wines from a specific commune. Riedenwein denotes single vineyard wines, positioned as complex wines with aging potential.

Currently, there are 18 DACs in Austria, including Weinviertel DAC, Mittelburgenland DAC, Traisental DAC, Kremstal DAC, Kamptal DAC, Leithaberg DAC, Eisenberg DAC, Neusiedlersee DAC (for Zweigelt wines), Wiener Gemischter Satz DAC, Rosalia DAC, Weststeiermark DAC, Südsteiermark DAC, Vulkanland DAC, Carnuntum DAC, Ruster Ausbruch DAC, Wachau DAC, Wagram DAC and Thermenregion DAC.

The DAC system helps in defining and promoting specific wine styles and regions within Austria, ensuring that consumers receive wines that meet their expectations under these designations.