Austrian Red Wines

Austrian red wines offer an impressive variety of aromas and a unique character from renowned wine regions.

Austria

The Fascination of Austrian Red Wines

Austrian red wines are enjoying growing popularity and offer an impressive variety of aromas and flavour profiles. The country has a long tradition of winemaking, and its unique wine regions contribute to the rich diversity. In this article, we present the key wine regions and the most popular grape varieties.

Austrian Wine Regions

Austria has numerous wine regions, each with its own character and style. Each region produces unique wines. The best-known regions include Burgenland, Wachau, Carnuntum, and the Thermenregion.

Burgenland

Burgenland lies in the east of Austria and is one of the most significant wine regions in the country. The climate is warm and dry, ideal for growing red grapes. The region is known for its robust and full-bodied red wines. Zweigelt, Blaufränkisch, and St. Laurent are the main varieties here. Burgenland wines often have aromas of dark berries, cherries, and spices.

Wachau

Wachau is located along the Danube and is better known for its white wines. However, remarkable red wines are also produced here. The climate is cooler, leading to elegant and structured red wines. Pinot Noir from Wachau is particularly noteworthy, impressing with its fine acidity and complex aromas.

Carnuntum

Carnuntum lies southeast of Vienna and is known for its fruity and powerful red wines. The climate is warm with hot summers and mild winters. Zweigelt and Blaufränkisch are the dominant varieties here. Wines from Carnuntum are often rich in red fruit aromas and have a robust structure.

Thermenregion

Thermenregion lies south of Vienna and enjoys a Pannonian climate with warm summers and mild winters. This region is famous for its elegant red wines, especially from the Pinot Noir variety. The wines often have fine fruit aromas and balanced acidity.

Popular Grape Varieties

Austria cultivates many different grape varieties. Each has its own character and contributes to the diversity of the wines. The most popular red grape varieties include Zweigelt, Blaufränkisch, St. Laurent, and Pinot Noir.

Zweigelt

Zweigelt is the most widely planted red grape variety in Austria. This grape produces fruity and approachable wines. Zweigelt wines often have aromas of cherries, plums, and spices. They are versatile and pair well with many dishes.

Blaufränkisch

Blaufränkisch is one of Austria's most important red grapes. The wines have a good acid structure and deep colours. Blaufränkisch wines often have aromas of dark berries, cherries, and pepper. They are ideal for aging and pair well with hearty dishes.

St. Laurent

St. Laurent is a demanding grape that produces excellent wines in Austria. The wines are often elegant and complex with aromas of black cherries, berries, and spices. St. Laurent pairs well with a variety of dishes and is ideal for festive occasions.

Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is an internationally renowned grape variety that thrives well in Austria's cooler regions. The wines are elegant and multi-layered with aromas of red fruits and floral notes. Pinot Noir pairs well with a variety of dishes and is ideal for festive occasions.

Suitable Occasions for Austrian Red Wines

Austrian red wines are versatile and suit many occasions. Whether festive dinner parties or relaxed evenings, there is a perfect wine for every occasion.

Festive Dinner Parties

For festive dinner parties, robust wines like Burgenland Blaufränkisch or Carnuntum Zweigelt are ideal. These wines have a strong presence and can stand up to hearty dishes. A Blaufränkisch pairs well with roast beef or game dishes. Zweigelt harmonises excellently with grilled meats or spicy dishes.

Relaxed Evenings

For relaxed evenings, lighter wines like Pinot Noir or St. Laurent are suitable. These wines are accessible and straightforward. A glass of Pinot Noir pairs well with a cheese platter or light appetisers. St. Laurent is ideal for pizza or pasta.

Summer Occasions

For summer occasions, fresh and fruity wines like Zweigelt or Blaufränkisch are perfect. These wines are particularly refreshing when lightly chilled. Zweigelt pairs well with grilled vegetables or salads. Blaufränkisch is a great companion for a summer barbecue.

Food Pairings

The combination of wine and food can be a true taste experience. Austrian red wines offer many possibilities for perfect food pairings.

Blaufränkisch and Meat Dishes

Blaufränkisch is a robust wine and pairs well with meat dishes. A roast beef or lamb dish are ideal companions. It also harmonises excellently with game dishes like venison or wild boar.

Zweigelt and Grilled Food

Zweigelt is perfect for grilled meats. A steak or lamb chops pair wonderfully with it. Spicy dishes like chili con carne or a hearty stew are also good partners.

St. Laurent and Light Dishes

St. Laurent is ideal for lighter dishes. A cheese platter or appetisers like antipasti pair well with it. It can also be an interesting choice for fish dishes.

Pinot Noir and Summer Dishes

Pinot Noir is a versatile wine and pairs well with summer dishes. Grilled vegetables or salads are great companions. It is also a fantastic choice for a summer barbecue.

Summary

Austrian red wines offer an impressive variety of aromas and flavours. Each wine region and each grape variety contributes to this diversity. Whether robust wines from Burgenland or elegant Pinot Noirs from Wachau, there is a perfect wine for every palate. The wines suit many occasions and dishes and enrich any wine cellar. With their high quality and unique character, Austrian red wines are truly worth discovering.