Austria may not be as globally renowned for its wines as countries like France or Italy, But it has a rich and diverse wine heritage that deserves attention. Nestled in the heart of Europe, Austria boasts several exceptional wine regions that produce world-class wines, from crisp whites to deep reds. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a casual traveller, Austria’s wine regions offer plenty to explore, with beautiful vineyards, charming wineries, and fascinating wine-tasting experiences.
In this guide, we’ll take you through some of Austria’s top wine regions, introduce you to the wines that make these areas famous, and explain why renting a car in Austria is the best way to experience these incredible wine regions at your own pace.
Austria’s wine regions are spread across the country, each with its unique climate, terroir, and grape varieties. From the banks of the Danube to the slopes of the Alps, Austrian wines are as diverse as the landscape itself. Let’s look at some of the country’s most famous wine regions.
Located along the Danube River between Melk and Krems, the Wachau Valley is one of Austria’s most famous wine regions and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This scenic region is known for its terraced vineyards that climb the hillsides, producing some of the country’s finest white wines.
The Wachau is particularly famous for its Grüner Veltliner and Riesling wines. Grüner Veltliner, Austria’s flagship white grape, is known for its crisp, fresh character, with flavours of green apple, lime, and a hint of white pepper. On the other hand, Riesling is an aromatic white wine with a balance of sweetness and acidity, often showcasing citrus, floral, and mineral notes.
Many vineyards in the Wachau are family-owned and offer visitors the chance to tour their cellars, learn about the winemaking process, and taste their wines. The region is also home to several wine taverns, known as Heurigen, where you can enjoy local wine paired with traditional Austrian food. The Wachau Valley is famous for its stunning landscapes, medieval castles, and charming villages, including the ancient Melk Abbey, the town of Dürnstein with its blue-painted church, and the ruins of Dürnstein Castle.
Located in the eastern part of Austria, near the border with Hungary, Burgenland is the country’s premier red wine region. This area is known for its warm climate, ideal for growing red wine grapes. Burgenland produces various red wines, but it is especially renowned for its Blaufränkisch and Zweigelt wines.
Blaufränkisch is a dark, spicy red wine with flavours of dark berries, pepper, and a hint of chocolate. It is one of Austria’s most respected red wine varieties, often compared to the wines of Burgundy or Italy’s Barbera. Zweigelt, a cross between Blaufränkisch and St. Laurent, is another well-known red wine from Burgenland. It is fruit-forward with soft tannins, making it an easy-drinking wine that pairs well with many dishes.
In addition to red wines, Burgenland is also known for its sweet wines, particularly those produced in the Neusiedler See region. The warm, humid climate of the lake creates ideal conditions for the noble rot, which helps produce exquisite botrytised wines, such as the renowned Beerenauslese and Trockenbeerenauslese wines.
Burgenland is also home to beautiful lakes and scenic vineyards, making it an excellent destination for wine tourism. Many wineries offer guided tours, tastings, and an opportunity to experience the local culture. Burgenland is not far from Vienna, and you can easily travel from the city to the wineries. Be sure to stop at the charming town of Rust, known for its wine cellars and traditional taverns.
Styria (Steiermark) is a lesser-known wine region in Austria, recently gaining recognition for its exceptional white wines. Located in the southern part of the country, near the border with Slovenia, Styria’s cool climate and hilly terrain are perfect for growing aromatic white grape varieties such as Sauvignon Blanc, Welschriesling, and Chardonnay.
Styria’s Sauvignon Blancs are renowned for their fresh acidity, citrusy flavours, and herbaceous notes. These wines are often described as more refined and elegant than those from other regions, making them a favourite among wine connoisseurs. In addition to Sauvignon Blanc, Styria also produces excellent Pinot Gris and Chardonnay wines, which are well-regarded for their balance and complexity.
The wine-growing region of Südsteiermark, also known as the “Styrian Tuscany,” is famous for its rolling hills and breathtaking landscapes. It is home to many small, family-owned wineries where you can enjoy a welcoming atmosphere and taste high-quality wines directly from the producers. Styria’s vineyards are spread across a stunning landscape of hills and forests, offering the perfect opportunity to visit local wineries and enjoy the region’s beauty.
Lower Austria (Niederösterreich) is the largest wine-producing region in Austria and boasts a wide variety of grape varieties. This diverse region is located just north of Vienna and is famous for its white wines, including Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, and Welschriesling. However, it also produces excellent red wines, like Zweigelt and Pinot Noir.
The wine-growing regions within Lower Austria are known for their distinctive terroirs, divided into several sub-regions, including Kamptal, Kremstal, and Traisental. Kamptal, for example, is renowned for its Grüner Veltliner and Riesling wines, which thrive in the region’s steep, south-facing vineyards. The Kremstal region, on the other hand, is known for producing wines with a mineral character, while Traisental is famous for its high-quality white wines.
Lower Austria is easily accessible from Vienna, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. Many wineries offer wine tastings and tours, allowing visitors to learn about the local wine culture and sample various wines. The charming town of Krems is a perfect starting point, with its historic centre and access to many top wineries.
Tyrol (Tirol) is an alpine region in western Austria, famous for its majestic mountains and outdoor activities. While Tyrol is not as well-known for wine as other regions in Austria, it does produce some unique and high-quality wines, particularly around Lake Garda and the southern part of the region.
Wines from Tyrol are typically produced in high-altitude vineyards, which benefit from cool temperatures and intense sunlight. The region is known for its white wines, such as Pinot Blanc and Müller-Thurgau, which are fresh, fruity, and aromatic.
The Tyrol region also produces some excellent red wines, including the local variety, Lagrein. This red wine is known for its deep colour, robust flavour, and velvety texture. Tyrol’s small wineries offer intimate wine-tasting experiences in stunning alpine settings, making it an ideal destination for those wanting a unique experience.
Explore the Tyrol region and enjoy its beautiful mountain scenery while visiting local wineries. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample Tyrol’s unique high-altitude wines.
Exploring Austria’s wine regions is an unforgettable experience, and renting a car is the best way to make the most of your journey. By renting a car in Austria, you can travel at your own pace, visit multiple vineyards in one day, and discover lesser-known gems.
Ready to discover Austria’s wine regions? Rent a car with Finalrentals and enjoy affordable rates, a wide selection of vehicles, and flexible rental options. Whether travelling solo, with a partner, or with friends, renting a car will enhance your wine-tasting experience.
Book your car rental today and start your Austrian adventure with Finalrentals!
Austria’s wine regions boast exceptional wines, stunning landscapes, and rich history. From the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley to the alpine vineyards of Tyrol, there’s something for every wine lover. Whether you prefer crisp whites or bold reds, Austria’s wine regions won’t disappoint.
Renting a car lets you explore at your own pace, visit multiple vineyards, enjoy scenic drives, and fully immerse yourself in Austria’s wine culture. Pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable journey through Austria’s vineyards!
