Where To Drink Wine With A View In The Austrian Alps?

Picture this: you, enjoying a glass of refreshing Grüner Veltliner, surrounded by the breathtaking Austrian Alps.

It’s not just a dream; it’s a reality waiting for you in this magical European destination. The Austrian Alps aren’t just a haven for skiing and hiking; they’re there for you to enjoy a glass of wine too! They’re a part of winemaking history in Austria.

The combination of high altitude, clear mountain air, and fertile soil provides an exceptional environment for growing grapes with intense flavors and distinct character.

Selecting the Perfect Spot: Criteria for the Best Wine with a View

Choosing the right place for a memorable wine experience in the Austrian Alps isn’t just a matter of picking a random terrace with a view.

It’s about finding a spot where elements like altitude, climate, and the land itself – come together to create the perfect glass of wine in the perfect place.

Altitude plays a key role in the character of Austrian wines. Vineyards perched at higher elevations benefit from cool nights, which are essential for developing acidity and aromatic complexity in the grapes.

And of course, these elevated terrains often offer the most stunning panoramic vistas.

Then, there’s the question of terroir. It’s the environment in which the vine grows, including factors like soil type, topography, and climate.

In the Austrian Alps, the terroir varies wildly from place to place, leading to an impressive array of wine profiles within a relatively small region.

Lastly, when you’re mapping out your wine-tasting journey, think about how you’ll get to these picturesque spots. Many of the best locales are off the beaten path, so I’m going to highlight places that strike a balance between remote beauty and accessibility.

Having a great view is wonderful, but if you can’t reach it without excessive trouble, the experience loses its charm.

Top Wine Bars and Vineyards with Breathtaking Views

Now, let’s talk about the heart and soul of this experience.

Austria’s alpine region isn’t just famous for its majestic peaks and lush valleys; it’s also home to a remarkable array of wine bars and vineyards that elevate the wine-tasting journey to new heights–literally.

You’ll find these gems tucked away in the terraced landscapes, offering some of the most striking views you can imagine.

Vorarlberg

First up on our tour of elevated elegance is Lech-Zürs, nestled in the vast Arlberg ski area, the biggest in Austria, in the Vorarlberg wine region.

Lech is a quaint village with the much-loved aura of a traditional Alpine wonderland; wooden chalets that bulge with fresh snow on their rooftops are pooled in the valley, an onion-dome church steeple presiding over the gentle hum of daily life.

Zürs, further up the vale, is more of a purpose-built resort town with hotels and apartment buildings.

The town itself is understatedly lavishing, with restaurants, bars, and luxury shops discretely lining the village’s streets. The variety of food on offer will keep gastronomy fundis occupied for great lengths of time.

Head to Rote Wand Chef’s Table for one of Lech’s finest dining experiences, as the flair of Chef Max Natmessnig is on full display.

While the nightlife in Lech doesn’t quite rival that of its neighbor, St Anton, there are still some trendy places to enjoy delectable cocktails.

For a pre-dinner drink, head to Fux Bar, where the extensive wine list will intrigue the most seasoned oenologists.

Tirol

Consider Das Central, the only 5-star resort in Sölden Valley in Tirol. With 125 rooms and suites, multiple dining venues, a large wellness center, and myriad programs geared towards guests’ varied interests (biking, hiking, skiing), the hotel provides an experience far beyond breakfast and a bed.

In fact, Das Central has one of the most innovative and unusual wine projects in Europe, with the culinary prowess to complement it.

Do wine and food taste different at 3048 meters? Located on the summit of the Gaislachkogl peak, restaurant ice Q encourages guests to find out.

James Bond fans may recognize the three-story glass cube from a scene in Daniel Craig’s Spectre.

Instead of a restaurant, ice Q’s contemporary architecture provided the setting for a futuristic clinic, the abundant snow outside hosting fast-paced chase sequences.

Oenophiles may know it as the site of the fifteen-year strong Wine on the Mountain festival, and, perhaps, more importantly, home to the Pino 3000 project.

Pino 3000 is a collaboration between three top winegrowers in neighboring countries. Austria’s native son Paul Achs, located in Gols; South Tyrol winery St. Pauls; and German producer Dr. Heger. Each year, they contribute their best Pinot grapes from a designated vineyard to be blended and aged in barrel on top of the mountain for two years.

The project attempts to demonstrate how high altitudes affect the aging of wine. The premise is that lower oxygen levels and less air pressure reduce the speed of aging (and oxidation), keeping the wine youthful for longer.

The winemakers and Das Central team ran a control experiment the first year of production in 2011. After agreeing a marked difference was perceived, they dropped the control to produce just a barrel of wine each year.

If you want a bottle, you’ll need to purchase one of only thirty-three packages offered annually, typically to hotel guests. The package includes 12 bottles, and other benefits like an overnight stay and wine release dinner. The other way to try the wine: visit any of the hotel’s restaurants and order a bottle.

During the summer, the bottom level of ice Q functions as a causal bistro for hikers dropping in for a coffee and apple strudel. The multi-course fine dining restaurant occupies the top floor. Both deliver views for miles on a clear day.

The peak of a mountain isn’t the only place to enjoy haute alpine cuisine and wine. Das Central’s gourmet restaurant Ötztaler Stube serves regional dishes prepared with a contemporary touch, complemented by a 30,000-bottle deep wine cellar.

Second up on our tour is the Weingut & Heuriger Dachsteinblick (Jausenstation Dachsteinblick) in Nußdorf am Attersee, Austria. It’s not an overstatement to say the panoramic view here might steal the show from the wine.

The Riesling and Gruner Veltliner here are the stars, thanks to the mineral-rich soils they thrive on.

Here are some of the things that people love about Weingut & Heuriger Dachsteinblick:

• The stunning views of Lake Traunsee
• The friendly and knowledgeable staff
• The delicious food
• The wide selection of wines
• The relaxed and welcoming atmosphere

If you are looking for a taste of Austria’s wine culture, I highly recommend visiting Weingut & Heuriger Dachsteinblick. You will not be disappointed!

Moving on, Der Weinlounge found in the Tyrolean Alps (Lermoos) combines modern architecture with ancient winemaking traditions.

It is a great place to enjoy a glass of wine and some tapas. The atmosphere is cozy and modern, and the food is delicious. The wine list is also extensive, with a wide selection of Austrian wines.

For a taste of something truly special, Zum Sepp located in the heart of the Zillertal Alps should be next on your list.

This family-run establishment isn’t just making wine; they’re curating an authentic Austrian experience. Their private label, crafted from local grape varieties, pairs perfectly with the alpine cheeses and charcuterie served under the open sky.

These spots, among others, form an intimate network of must-visit destinations for any oenophile.

Be ready to enjoy drinking wine with a view!

Unique Wine Tasting Activities in the Austrian Alps

I’m going to share with you some immersive wine experiences that go beyond just sipping a glass with a view.

Austria’s Alps region isn’t just about picturesque landscapes; it’s about embracing the local culture through its wine-tasting activities.

If you’re the adventurous type, you’ll find the concept of a wine hike fascinating.

Picture this: you’re trekking through alpine trails, and along the way, there are boutique wineries offering you a taste of their finest. These trails often lead to hidden, family-owned vineyards where you can learn directly from the growers.

For those who enjoy the vibrancy of local events, plan your trip around the harvest season. You can partake in grape picking and stomp festivals, which often feature live music and traditional Austrian cuisine paired with the vineyard’s best bottles.

Seeking something more structured? Guided events are available. They not only explain the wine-making process but also share tales of the region’s heritage. This way, you get to deepen your understanding of the wine you’re enjoying.

Guided Wine Tasting in a Hidden Wine Bar

While sitting in a a discreet and local wine bar nestled in the heart of Salzburg, explore the diverse flavors and rich history behind each wine as you sit in. Let a seasoned wine expert guide you through the tasting of three distinct wines, spanning from traditional regional varieties to other exquisite Austrian selections.

Each wine will be thoughtfully paired with a delectable snack to enhance your tasting experience.

Opt for the premium option to indulge in a unique tasting adventure, including a wine bar hopping experience featuring three additional wines and more delectable snacks. Learn more about the Guided Wine Tasting in a Hidden Wine Bar

Private Austrian Wine Tasting with a Pro-Sommelière

Dive into the world of Austria’s finest wines during this tasting adventure, exploring why Austrian wines have consistently earned their spot on the world’s most prestigious wine lists over the years.

Led by a skilled sommelière and professional wine educator, you’ll discover the secrets of Austrian winemaking, backed by the country’s reputation for having the world’s strictest wine laws.

The experience is designed to be not just informative but also enjoyable and approachable, featuring activities like our exclusive wine memory game to sharpen your ability to identify aromas in wines.

Six wines will be tasted paired with freshly baked bread for a complete sensory experience.

You can also upgrade to have the charcuterie tasting experience along with the wine (for 15€)

Find out more about this private Austrian wine tasting.

Planning Your Alpine Wine Adventure: Practical Tips and Considerations

Let me guide you through finalizing the plans for your Austrian Alps wine escapade, ensuring you get the most from your trip with a few practical tips.

Timing is everything – aim to visit between late spring and early fall to fully enjoy the outdoor wine experiences without the chill of winter getting in your way.

Choose accommodation that suits your pace; from luxury alpine resorts to cozy chalets, you want a place that’s convenient for vineyard hopping.

Familiarize yourself with local customs – a respectful ‘Prost!’ with eye contact during toasts goes a long way in showing admiration for Austrian traditions.

To truly embrace the local scene, attend a ‘Heurigen’ – a traditional tavern where new wine is served, bringing together wine, food, and regional charm.

And remember, you don’t need to rush. Allocate enough time at each location to relish the views, the wine, and the company.

Finally, as you’re planning your journey, think about eco-friendly travel options to help preserve the pristine alpine environments for years to come.

So, which experience is the first on your list?

Let me know in the comments!