Wine Tourism In Wachau For Grüner Veltliner Enthusiasts

If you love white Austrian wines and more precisley the deliciously fresh Grüner Veltliner, then the Wachau is definitely the region to explore!

Morevoer, the Wachau is one of my favourite regions in Austria. Why? Because it’s absolutely so beautiful (Unesco world heritage)! The beautiful Danube making its way between the green hills that seem to stretch out for miles really give this peaceful feeling. You could easily imagine painters, poets, readers getting lost in this heavenly place!

And for us, wine lovers, imagine sipping your Grüner Veltliner wine face to this beautiful scenic landscape?

But, don’t take my word for it and go check it out by yourself!

Discovering Wachau’s Wine Heritage

In the heart of Wachau, winegrowers have upheld centuries-old traditions.

Indeed, rather than succumbing to the lure of mass production for supermarket shelves, these family-owned businesses on medieval terraces have embraced a niche marketing strategy.

The foundation of Vinea Wachau in 1983 solidified their commitment to restrict wine production to the region’s defined growing areas, emphasizing unwavering dedication to quality, origin, and purity. These principles have given rise to wines that are truly unique, bearing the unmistakable mark of their origin.

What sets Wachau apart is not just its exceptional wines but also its steadfast refusal to compromise on tradition. The winemakers of Wachau shun the temptation to source grapes or wine from other regions, cultivating their own vineyards with painstaking care.

They labor by hand, even in places where machines could be used, preserving the artistry of winemaking in the face of technological advancement.

The wines bear the names of their vineyards, carrying with them a rich history and character that reflect the region’s terroir.

This steadfast commitment to tradition has allowed Wachau to maintain its terraced vineyards, ensuring the preservation of these ancient landscapes while producing some of the world’s finest wines.

Wachau’s unique wine culture and heritage are now celebrated as an integral part of its World Heritage-listed landscape, drawing countless visitors to experience the magic of this remarkable winegrowing region.

Grüner Veltliner is their flagship grape variety. If you want to know all about Grüner Veltliner, I strongly advise you to check my post dedicated to this grape.

In a nutshell,Grüner Veltliner rose to prominence during the 1950s, all thanks to Lenz Moser’s innovative high training technique. While this approach resulted in abundant yields, it regrettably yielded wines that lacked intrigue.

However, the distinctive climate of the Wachau region ushered in a new era for Grüner Veltliner wines. Displaying elevated acidity with herbaceous and citrus aromas, and white pepper notes, these wines found their stride. Notably, they have the potential for extensive aging, transforming over time to exude honeyed nuances and toasted accents.

The crafting of Grüner Veltliner wines follows two primary paths. The “Klassik” method entails maturation in stainless steel tanks, while the “Reserve” technique involves aging in novel oak barrels.

Thanks to its elevated acidity, pepper-laden and herb-infused aromatic profile, as well as its refreshing vivacity, Grüner Veltliner seamlessly complements an array of dishes. Ranging from seafood and piquant Asian cuisine to indulgent fried and creamy fares, it pairs wonderfully with Austrian gastronomy.

Notably, Austria’s labeling provides a wealth of information. For those seeking the paramount selection, the discerning choice stays the esteemed Smaragd wines.

Within the Wachau region, a prevalent presence is that of granite soils. Distinguished by their frequent fissures, these soils facilitate the vine roots’ penetration, imparting a sense of vivacity to the resulting wines. And isn’t precisely this invigorating freshness a sought-after attribute in a typical Grüner Veltliner?

Nevertheless, along the undulating hillsides, you can also encounter gneiss and loess soils. These substrates, abundant in minerals and endowed with richness, give complexity to the wines.

Visiting Historic Wineries

In the picturesque Wachau Valley, Domäne Wachau is a well-known winemaking cooperative covering 450 hectares, producing an impressive 3 million bottles annually.

Formerly Freie Weingärtner Wachau, it transformed in 2008 and has maintained a stellar reputation. From 1991 to 2003, Fritz Miesbauer led the winemaking, and now Heinz Frischengruber is in charge. With 250 families tending to the vineyards, most focus 70% of their efforts on the Grüner Veltliner grape, tailoring wines to tourists’ tastes.

Despite its size, Domäne Wachau embraces experimentation and eco-friendliness. About 30 hectares are organically farmed, with Frischengruber using a sensory approach to determine the optimal harvest date.

Fermentation occurs in steel tanks, discouraging malolactic fermentation intentionally. Grüner Veltliner and Riesling undergo different aging processes based on the climatic nuances of the year—casks for cool years and stainless steel for warm ones.

Despite the industrial scale, Domäne Wachau maintains a spirit of exploration, evident in intriguing experiments like aging in amphoras and granite vats, and even venturing into the realm of fortified Grüner Veltliner.

Another historic wineries is the Mauritiushof on the historic Spitzer Kirchenplatz of Weingut F.J.Gritsch, blending tradition with innovation.

Since September 2022, there’s a cool new addition called the modern annex. It’s like a dream come true for wine lovers, with stylish rooms, a fancy cellar, a space for events, and a versatile kitchen.

You can also join private tastings and cooking sessions for a fully immersive experience. There are even three cozy vacation apartments if you want to stay longer.

And the best part? You get a breathtaking view of Austria’s famous vineyards, including the Ried Singerriedel. To make things super convenient, there’s underground parking right on-site, making sure your whole experience is absolutely amazing.

In the world of Wachau producers, Rudi Pichler, born in 1964, stands as a icon. He now leads the family estate, continuing the dedication to quality with a limited yield per hectare and avoiding certain winemaking processes.

Rudi, a meticulous custodian of his vineyards, intimately understands the nuances that the cooler airs from side valleys can bring, navigating these challenges by deliberately limiting yields to a judicious 30 or 35 hectoliters per hectare.

Another Pichler family is the the F.X. Pichler family wine estate, now in its remarkable seventh generation, is led by Lucas Franz Pichler and his wife Johanna Elisabeth.

The winemaking legacy dates back to the mid-19th century when Franz Pichler II moved the family from Rohrendorf near Krems to the scenic Wachau Valley.

In 1898, Franz Pichler VI acquired the property in Oberloiben, Dürnstein, where Oberloiben No. 27 became synonymous with global wine success until 2008. The legacy continued with Franz Xaver (F.X.) Pichler, born in 1941, who officially took control of the family winery in 1971.

In 1928, F.X.’s father initiated a meticulous selection massale practice, identifying outstanding Grüner Veltliner vines for propagation. F.X. was also a founding member of the Loiben winegrowers’ cooperative in the late 1930s, supporting small winegrowers in the town.

Today, Lucas Franz, the seventh-generation winemaker, carries on the tradition of excellence. He honed his skills through education and internships, including influential experiences in Pfalz and Südsteiermark.

Since the 1999 vintage, he played a pivotal role in shaping the F.X. Pichler estate, now encompassing 20 hectares of exceptional single-vineyard sites, divided between Grüner Veltliner and Riesling.

Located in Loiben and Dürnstein, these vineyards feature steep, terraced slopes with dry-stone walls, showcasing Wachau’s cultural heritage.

Johanna Elisabeth, born into a winemaking family in Rheinhessen, Germany, began her viticulture journey early in life. She attended viticulture school in Oppenheim and completed her viticulture economist training at the Technical College in Bad Kreuznach an der Nahe.

Her love for wine brought her to the Wachau, where she met Lucas Franz in 2003. Since then, she has been an integral part of the F.X. Pichler team, overseeing sales, marketing, and export, sharing a deep passion for winemaking with her husband.

Together, Lucas Franz and Johanna Elisabeth Pichler uphold and enhance the family’s legacy, producing exceptional wines honoring tradition, innovation, and dedication to quality.

ANECDOTE: The tradition of selection massale, initiated by Franz Pichler senior in the early 20th century, is integral to the F.X. Pichler family’s winemaking heritage. First documented in 1928 in the Loibenberg and Steinertal vineyards, it aimed to identify exceptional Grüner Veltliner vines.

This meticulous process resulted in the cultivation of vines producing smaller, higher-extract grapes, yielding lower but higher-quality grape yields, and enhanced resistance to diseases. The chosen selection massale from that era remains in use today, bearing testament to the family’s enduring respect for their ancestors.

This time-consuming practice preserves knowledge across generations, ensuring the continuation of exceptional winemaking. Selection massale embodies a commitment to quality, tradition, and cultivating diversity within their vineyards, setting the stage for a legacy of exceptional wines.”

If you wish to discover other signature Grüner Veltliner tastings, check out my article on the Wachau and its star wineries.

Many other tasting activites can be found near Dürnstein. This picturesque village beckons travelers with its timeless charm and rich history. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, you can easily recognise Dürnstein with its distinctive blue clocktower that serves as a symbol of its unique character.

The medieval town is really pretty with harmonious blend of colorful buildings, elegant Baroque architecture, and winding cobblestoned streets.

One of its most iconic attractions is the Dürnstein Castle, perched majestically above the town. This 12th-century fortress, famously associated with the captivity of King Richard the Lionheart, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Dürnstein and the meandering Danube River.

Dürnstein’s historical center, as well as the convenient docks for day-cruises, are easily accessible on foot.

For those who love to eat (like me), taste typical Austrian food in a picturesque setting at Alter Klosterkeller.

Beyond its idyllic vineyard surroundings, Dürnstein invites you to immerse yourself in its captivating heritage, whether through the ancient castle ruins, the serene Stift Dürnstein monastery, or the rugged Kuenringerburg Ruins.

Adventurous spirits can explore the Dürnstein Abbey Gorge, a natural wonder boasting hiking trails and cascading waterfalls.

And for wine enthusiasts, Dürnstein stands at the heart of Austria’s wine country, offering the opportunity to indulge in delightful wine tasting experiences.

Immersive Harvest Experiences

When autumn paints Lower Austria in vibrant colors, it’s time to dive into the celebration of Weinherbst, or wine autumn. From August to November, Wachau becomes the hotspot for events all about the vine’s magic.

In the heart of Wachau, there’s a bunch of cool stuff waiting for you—vineyard walks, wine cellar parties, harvest celebrations, new wine tastings, and even enchanting wine christenings.

The air is filled with the sweet smell of ripe grapes and the joyful vibe of the season. Whether you’re a seasoned wine pro or just curious, these celebrations have something for everyone, and they’re super laid-back.

Wine growers in Wachau are throwing out a warm invite to dive into their vineyards so as the sun sets over this awesome landscape, kick back with a glass of local wine, making the whole experience unforgettable.

Now, when it’s grape harvest time, you’re not just watching from the sidelines—you’re part of the action. Get your hands sticky picking grapes, or just enjoy the show as the skilled harvesters do their thing.

The wine growers, who have award-winning wines, will be your guides through tastings, sharing stories that make each sip come alive.

For an exclusive experience, sign up on the Donau Niederösterreich Tourismus GmbH website.

Package price per person starting from €142.00 (double room), €165.00 (single room):

• 2 overnight stays at the winery with breakfast included
• A warm welcome with a refreshing drink
• Hands-on grape harvesting experience
• Guided wine tasting session
• Rental bicycle for a day with return transfer
• A captivating Danube ship journey from Krems to Spitz (one way)

Hotel & Winery Package:

• €249.00 (double room), €275.00 (single room)

• Services Included:
• • 2-night stay with breakfast
  • Welcome drink
  • Grape harvesting session
  • Wine tasting
  • 1-day bicycle rental (return transfer)
  • Danube ship ride from Krems to Spitz
• Services Not Included (to be paid on-site):
• • Local tax of €1.60 per person/night (15 and up)

How to Reserve Your Autumn Escape

Book your immersive Weinherbst experience from October 1, 2023, to November 4, 2023. Arrivals are possible from Sunday to Thursday, ensuring flexibility for your autumn retreat.

Organized by Donau Niederösterreich Tourismus GmbH, this is your ticket to an unforgettable journey into the heart of Wachau’s wine country. For more information and reservations, visit www.niederoesterreich.at/taxen.

Wine Festivals and Events

Step right into the lively heart of Wachau during its annual wine festivals, where the whole region bursts with energy.

One standout is the famous “Wachau Wine Spring – Vinea Wachau” (check it out at vinea-wachau.at), held annually in May. It is a popular event for wine lovers and visitors from all over the world.

Location : The Wachau Valley is located in the Lower Austria region of Austria, about an hour’s drive west of Vienna. It is a narrow valley with steep slopes facing the Danube River. The vineyards are terraced and the valley is dotted with picturesque villages and towns.

What to Expect : The Wachau Wine Spring is a day of wine tasting, live music, and traditional Austrian food. Visitors can wander from winery to winery, sampling the region’s famous Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, and Chardonnay wines.

There are also plenty of opportunities to enjoy traditional Austrian cuisine, such as Wiener Schnitzel and Sachertorte.

The event is also a great opportunity to learn about the Wachau Valley’s winemaking traditions.

There are seminars and tastings with winemakers, as well as guided tours of the vineyards and wineries.

On the evening of the first tasting day, winemakers and guests gather at Schloss Spitz for a cozy evening with wine and music. The festival is gastronomically accompanied by Harry’s Gastrotainment.

Accommodation : There are a variety of accommodation options available in the Wachau Valley, from luxury hotels to traditional guesthouses. Most of the wineries are located in the villages of Spitz, Krems, and Melk, so these are the best places to stay if you want to be close to the action.

Ticket Prices :You can get the Weinfrühling wristband for €30 at all participating wineries, on the Wachau train, and at the tourist information centers in Spitz, Krems, and Melk. This entitles you to taste the offered wines and also allows free use of the Wachau bus lines, the Wachau train, and the Danube ferries on both event days!

Concerning the evening at Schloss Spitz, admission id €25 (with Weinfrühling wristband) or €30 (without Weinfrühling wristband). The entrance fee includes 2 wine vouchers for 1 glass of wine each, which can be redeemed at several bars.
Tickets can only be purchased in cash at the evening box office.

Here are some additional tips for planning your trip to the Wachau Wine Spring:

• Book your accommodation early: The Wachau Valley is a popular tourist destination, so it is important to book your accommodation early to avoid disappointment.
• Take the Wachaubahn: The Wachaubahn is a scenic railway that runs along the Danube River. It is a great way to get around the valley and see the vineyards.
• Take a boat trip: There are many boat trips that depart from the villages of Spitz, Krems, and Melk. They offer a great way to see the vineyards and the surrounding countryside.
• Try the local food: The Wachau Valley is famous for its traditional Austrian cuisine. Be sure to try Wiener Schnitzel, Sachertorte, and other local delicacies.

Every August since 1960, in Weissenkirchen, the Riesling Wine Festival puts Riesling in the spotlight. It’s a cool tradition where people get to enjoy fantastic wines and also show respect to those who made Wachau famous for its awesome wines.

Wachau’s Culinary Delights

Three ways to enjoy Wachau wine and food!

If you love cooking, check out my article on what to pair with Grüner Veltliner to give you a few ideas of dishes you can make while sipping a the flagship wine!

If you want to visit the typical Wachau taverns, mostly known under the name of Heurigers, check out the website Top Heurigers, which will guide you to best Heurigers in the Wachau.

Last, if you’re more into fine dining in the heart of the wine country, there are a few Michelin-starred gems!

One you must know about is Landhaus Bacher in Mautern. Check out the full review here : “It is a “Geniesser-hotel” which can be translated as a place for the Epicureans. Their awards are quite impressive. Lisl Wagner-Bacher is one of the best chefs in Austria and she was the first woman there to be awarded the Gault Millau “Chef of the Year” in 1983.

The restaurant has also been rated 2 stars by the Michelin guide and 3 toques by the Gault Millau guide with a rating of 18 out of 20! It is possible to take part in gastronomy courses with her and they even have guest rooms in their nice countryside house.”

You can find other reviews on TripAdvisor

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Experiences

Right in the middle of Wachau, they don’t just talk about sustainability; they live it every day. From organic vineyards to eco-friendly fun, every adventure is an opportunity to be kind to this special land.

When you enjoy the green wonders of Wachau, you’re not just a guest; you’re taking care of its beauty and adding to the tradition of exploring this Austrian gem in an eco-friendly way.

So let’s take care of it, shall we?

Here are the few experiences you can undertake without leaving too much of a carbon footprint.

1. Vineyard Strolls and Organic Wines: Start your eco-friendly exploration with a relaxing stroll through vineyards committed to organic and sustainable practices. Domäne Wachau, a trailblazer in the region, combines tradition and ecological mindfulness in its terraced vineyards for instance.
2. Cycling Along the Danube: Swap four wheels for two and embrace the eco-friendly charm of cycling along the Danube. Wachau’s well-maintained cycling trails offer a refreshing way to soak in the scenery. Rent a bike from one of the local providers and pedal your way through apricot orchards, medieval villages, and riverside pathways, experiencing the beauty of Wachau at your own pace. Check out the next paragraph for some ideas!
3. Farm-to-Table Culinary Delights: Wachau’s commitment to sustainability extends to its culinary scene. Join in farm-to-table dining experiences, where you’ll taste local ingredient. Whether in charming wine taverns or Michelin-starred spots, support local farmers and producers.
4. Wine and Wellness Retreats: Immerse yourself in a holistic retreat that blends wine, wellness, and sustainability. Some vineyards offer eco-friendly accommodations, providing a serene escape among the vine-clad hills.
5. Danube River Cruises with a Green Twist: Explore the Danube on eco-conscious river cruises that showcase Wachau’s natural wonders. These cruises prioritize sustainability, using eco-friendly technologies to navigate the river.

Adventure and Scenic Exploration

In order to have a different perspective of the vineyards, why not mount a bike and go on a cycling tour in the vineyards?

Embark on a distinctive wine-tasting adventure with our Wachau Valley winery bike tour—a delightful fusion of biking, fun, and breathtaking scenery.

Immerse yourself in the invigorating country air as you pedal through historic towns, enchanting villages, and awe-inspiring landscapes.

Pause at local wineries to savor dry and fruity whites, accompanied by delectable treats such as the renowned apricot jams and liqueurs of the valley.

Take a moment to explore the medieval charm of Dürnstein or consider a refreshing swim in the Danube, followed by a delightful lunch at a local tavern—a cherished, family-run establishment that embodies tradition and flavor.

>> Click here to sign up! <<

Conclusion: Sip and Savor: Wine Tourism in Wachau for Grüner Veltliner Enthusiasts

Get ready for the Wachau Wine Dream then! Creating memories is the main act in this incredible wine adventure, leaving a lasting impression on every visitor.

From hands-on grape picking to guided tasting sessions, Wachau warmly welcomes wine lovers. It’s not just about trying their famous wines but also diving deep into the rich history of winemaking.

So, get your ticket for one of its festival or join in on a wine tour!

Let me know in the comments about you experience!