Christ, Jedlersdorf Cobenzl, Grinzing Edlmoser, Mauer Fuhrgassl-Huber, Neustift am Walde Mayer am Pfarrplatz, Heiligenstadt Wieninger, Stammersdorf WienWein/Raimo Rudi Rumpler Press pack, Vienna, June 2014 Contact WienWein the Vienna Wine Group: Stammersdorferstrasse 31, 1210 Vienna welcome@wienwein.at www.wienwein.at, www.facebook.com/wienwein
Contents 1. History of Vienna and its wine... 3 2. Vienna wine conquers Vienna... 4 3. WIENWEIN on form at the top... 5 4. The wine-growing region and its characteristics... 6 5. Nussberg... 7 6. Bisamberg... 8 7. Mauer... 10 8. Neustift am Walde... 10 9. The WienWein Group and the "Wiener Gemischter Satz"... 12 10. Wiener Gemischter Satz DAC... 13 11. Profiles of the 6 WienWein wineries... 16 WIENWEIN Page 2
1. History of Vienna and its wine The Romans could be trusted. When imperial soldiers sought an ideal place to build a fort along the Danube in the First Century, they came upon the Celtic village of Vindobona. Here they found cultivated vineyards and slopes that appealed to the new occupiers from the south. Growing vines in what is today s Vienna was everything but a new discovery at this period in time, as archaeological finding confirm evidence of vineyards on Nussberg, Kahlenberg and Bisamberg dating back to 750BC. The Romans did introduce their cultivated vines and thereby systematically developed viticulture. From the 12 th Century, there are documents that record the vineyards and their ownership, which is regarded as a sign for the viticulture that thrived during the Middle Ages. There were major setbacks to the production of wine, however, during both sieges of Vienna in 1529 and 1683. The unprotected countryside outside of the city walls, for example, was decimated by the Ottoman army. The Thirty Years War also left its mark. As early as the reign of Karl the Great, wine growers were permitted to sell their own produce for a period of three months per year. This formed the foundation of the traditional Heuriger wine tavern in Vienna, yet it was not until 1784, after the Emperor Josef II passed a law that enabled every winemaking producer to sell and serve their own food and wine produce throughout the year. This led to the transformation of peasant drinking houses to fully-fledged taverns serving meals. Visiting the Heuriger during the 19 th Century became a traditional Sunday afternoon pastime. Incidentally, the name Heuriger does not derive from the Austrian word heuer, which means this year or current year, but actually stems from the term Hauer, the old Viennese term for Weinhauer or wine grower. One particular speciality of viticulture in Vienna was the G mischte Satz ; a wine that was produced as a mixed field blend from several different grape varieties, and fermented as a whole, and not as a blended as finished wine. This enables the fine diversity of the soils, as well as the microclimates of the vineyards, to be expressed due to the optimal condition of the grapes. WIENWEIN Page 3
2. Vienna wine conquers Vienna The rapid urban growth of Vienna forced viticulture to the outskirts of the city at the beginning of the 20 th Century. It was here that the wine-growers could hold their ground, and today there are around 700 hectares (ca. 1700 acres), whereby the concentration of the Viennese viticulture is based around the regions of Nussberg and Kahlenberg, Bisamberg and Maurerberg. During the second half of the Twentieth Century, it seemed that the wine culture would diminish in favour of the tremendous success of the Heuriger. This was the image of wine from Vienna; jug wine served as a G spritzter white wine spritzer. Premium wine from Vienna therefore is a comparatively recent development, and the top growth wines from the Danube metropolis are receiving a very welcome reception. Ironically, the success initially came from abroad, as the local Viennese tended to associate their wines with the cosy wine taverns, and it took a long time before they began to appreciate the quality of the better wines, and find them listed at Viennese restaurants, and sommeliers told their guests that if they wanted to try wines from Vienna, you should go to Heuriger wine tavern. Slowly but surely, Vienna wine has conquered its home city. The range of wines differentiates between the original Heuriger drinking wine, as the embodiment of the city, found alongside the preferred choice of wines enjoyed by wine lovers, that have become some of Austria s most prized wines, and are in more demand than ever, both in Austria and abroad. Wines that reflect their soil structure taste completely different in the north of Vienna, compared to wines from the southern districts. This is largely thanks to the micro climate, that is down to the magnificent Danube river. WIENWEIN Page 4
3. WienWein on form at the top The tremendous success of Vienna s top wines is no coincidence, and its growth is the result of the hard work by a group of dedicated wine producers, who have helped put Vienna on the map internationally with great wine qualities. The WienWein group was formed in 2006 to set new measures of quality for Vienna Wine, particularly to convince wine lovers both in Vienna and beyond Austria s borders, that wine from Vienna has its own very unique character; to enhance every wine list and claims a place in the international wine world. What unites this now six member strong winemaking group's enthusiasm, is its unconditional focus on quality, an understanding of their own roots, coupled with the courage to occasionally break away from traditions. The six members of the Group have wineries in each of the distinctive zones of Vienna, and together they represent the great diversity of Vienna wine: Weingut Rainer Christ in Jedlersdorf, Weingut Cobenzl in Grinzing, Weingut Michael Edlmoser in Mauer, Weingut Fuhrgassl-Huber in Neustift am Walde, Weingut Mayer am Pfarrplatz in Heiligenstadt, Weingut Fritz Wieninger in Stammersdorf. WIENWEIN Page 5
4. The wine-growing region and its characteristics Even the administrative borders of Vienna make the wine-growing region really unique; Wien (Vienna) is the only wine-growing region in the world that has its entire wine production within the boundaries of a capital city. Despite its size, the region shows enormous diversity. The river Danube creates a specific microclimate, and it also divides the geological zones. The vast Vienna Woods, that encompass a significant area of the southern part of the city, creates a completely different climate compared to that in the North or West of the city. The northern outskirts of the wine-growing region borders with Weinviertel. Its most southerly vineyards stretch towards the Pannonian zone of Thermenregion, and there is a wide spectrum of diversity in varieties and styles encountered here. The three most significant regions are the Nussberg, with its slopes that stretch towards the Danube, the Bisamberg towards the north of the river, and the Maurerberg in the south of the city. WIENWEIN Page 6
5. Nussberg Nussberg is a Großlage vineyard site (ca. 200ha, 500 acres) that is made up of numerous and diverse sub-sites. The vineyards are south and south-east facing, that literally overlook the water of the Danube, as the Viennese say. The soil consists primarily of calcareous shell limestone, and there is even evidence of part of a coral reef dating back to the Tertiary Period on the southern hillside. By contrast, the soil on the foothills of the Leopold mountain is a loamy soil with elements of slate. The moderating effect of the Danube is felt, with the river reflecting the sunlight, coupled with the diurnal effect of its great water surface, which blesses the vines with long, warm days during late autumn. A constant westerly breeze dries the morning dew on the grapes that grow on the crest of the Nussberg vineyards, preventing the growth of botrytis. The combination of these factors make it possible for the grapes to ripen later and more evenly. The Nussberg vineyards stretch across three differing land strips: the lowest lies at around 175 metres above sea level closest to the Danube; the mid-band is at an average of 340 metres and the plateau is up to 360 metres above sea level. The most interesting strip is the mid-band, due to it being warmer than the plateau and not as damp as the lower sites closest to the Danube. The best vineyards are Ulm, Preussen, Rosengartl and Langteufel, and all of these are situated along the mid-band. This region is highly suitable for Riesling, and wines express an astonishingly complex mineral character, but Chardonnay and Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc) also thrive here. In the deeper sites, the varieties Traminer and Grüner Veltliner grow really well. These wines generally express more depth and spice characters, than just primary fruit. The Nußberger was a famous wine in the 19 th and early 20 th Century, and it was a G mischter Satz mixed field blend wine of Riesling, Neuburger, Weißburgunder (Pinot Blanc) and Traminer. Along the Nussberg (including Leopoldsberg and Kahlenberg mountains), on the western bank of the Danube, there are more vineyards in Grinzing, and farther westwards on Kahlenberg, in Sievering, Dornbach and Neustift. WIENWEIN Page 7
6. Bisamberg Geologically, Bisamberg is an extension of Kahlenberg, that is situated on the opposite, southern bank, of the Danube. At some stage in time, the river gorged its way through the mountain range. The soils structure on the Bisamberg is calcareous with a hig loess and loam share. In higher climbs, the soil contains more gravel and offers better drainage. The climate is influenced by the proximity of the Danube, and the southern hillsides in particular benefit from the mild, constant warmth of lots of late autumnal sunshine. Rainfall is lower here than in other parts of Vienna, and Bisamberg is well known for its dry climate and prevailing wines in exposed vineyards. A wide variety of grapes grow in this vineyard oasis, such as Grüner Veltliner on the gravelly and sandy soils mixed with loam. Powerful Weißburgunder (Pinot Blanc) and Chardonnay vines grow on the upper plateau, along with fruity Pinot Noirs. The lower hillsides are more suited for red wine varieties such as Zweigelt, Merlot and even Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine-growing villages along the foothills of Bisamberg include Stammersdorf, Strebersdorf and Jedlersdorf, and although they have been part of Vienna for a long time, they have retained their quaint, village character. The significant vineyard sites on Bisamberg: Jungenberg: Warm soils with a high percentage of weathered sand and limestone lead to early ripening grapes. The wines produced here are full-bodied and rich, and are well suited for Rieslings, and red wines, especially Zweigelt. Gabrissen: A hot site with sand and weathered limestone soils, that are ideal for late-ripening varieties. There is an interesting pocket of a about 3 hectares called Bruch in the middle of Gabrissen. This sub-site consists of highly crystalline bedrock and gives the Grüner Veltliner and Riesling wines, as well as red wines, a highly mineral character. Falkenberg: The plateau on Bisamberg is predominantly shell limestone. The site is cooler with a light breeze, that is ideal for Pinot varieties, especially for white wines. WIENWEIN Page 8
Wiesthalen: This is one of the oldest recorded sites in Austria, and lies upwards on Bisamberg, much like a backbone. The edge of a forest forms a protective circle around the vines. The soil structure comprises of clay with a high mineral content, such as magnesium and iron. These soils are well suited to the Pinot varieties that do not require so much warmth, and the finished wines are rich in finesse and elegant. Herrenholz: The Herrenholz vineyard is named after the small copse on the Viennese Bisamberg, that is significant with its high content of sand in the soil. Slow growth here generally leads to low yields. The high level of chalk in the soil makes highly delicate, complex wines. The principal grape varieties are Grüner Veltliner, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. WIENWEIN Page 9
7. Maurerberg The 50 hectare (approx. 120 acre) vineyard on Mauererberg lies directly on the Vienna Woods foothills. The unique microclimate the south of Vienna boasts to be one of the places in Austria with the most hours of sunshine, with cool temperatures during the night and a particularly constant supply of water from the neighbouring Vienna Woods provides the perfect conditions for fine and fruity, as well as rich white and red wines. Kadolzberg (including the Kadolzberg, Leiten, Kroissberg sites) The northeasterly slope that faces the city of Vienna is geologically part of the Wiener Platte (lit. Viennese plate), and consists of lime, sediment and clay. The soil is cool, dense, and retains water, that is ideal for expressive red wines, but also gives outstanding results for refreshing white wine varieties, such as Sauvignon Blanc, Muskateller (Muscat), Pinot Blanc and Chardonnay. Maurerberg (including the Sätzen, Reisberg, Himmel sites) The view due south reaches as far as the Thermenregion, where Gumpoldskirchen in sight. The soil is loose and retains warmth, consisting of sandy, shell limestone and mixed with granite. The Pannonian climate dominants, which provides ideal ripening conditions for red wine. Chardonnay and Pinot Blanc ripen to rich and mighty white wines and Riesling is cultivated on the cooler sites. 8. Neustift am Walde Neustift am Walde is a magnificent wine-region in Vienna. It is peppered with Heuriger wine taverns and is a popular tourist destination. The Neustift residents themselves are very proud of their wine and wine taverns. Top sites here boast wonderful southern exposure, with excellent soils and a diversity of microclimates. The vineyards of Neustift have a defined structure; they are more or less made up of a huge, single huge hillside, that cascades down from Neuberg to Neustift am Walde. The classification and qualification of the Neustift vineyards are revealed simply by the fact that the slopes of the Neuberg hillside is divided into three homogeneous Zones. The Hofstädten site begins just behind the houses in the Rathstraße; the Heuriger wine tavern gardens are quite level and the vineyards are generally in direct sunshine. The soil is deep-reaching and highly fertile, with sand and gravel sediment from the Krottenbach brook mixed with the weathered loam from the flysch zone, forming a perfect base for vine cultivation of vines. The adjacent residential houses can however inadvertently trap excess moisture in the lowest zones of the vineyard. WIENWEIN Page 10
The most significant sites in Neustift am Walde: The steeply-inclined Neuberg refers to the exceptionally meagre and dry section on the uppermost slopes of the Neustift vineyards, with its stony and infertile soil on the sheer side of the slope. Viticulture on the 13 hectares (32 acre) Neuberg is laborious and costly, yet the benefits of this impressively mineral-rich soil, combined with a naturally favourable air circulation in the site, results in wines with enormous potential. Mitterbergen is the name of the sloped site between the two roads, Mitterwurzengasse and Zierleitengasse, and represents the heart of the vineyards in Neustift. The vineyards have a gentle incline and face due south, providing these vines with optimal sunshine hours; the composition of stone is much higher here, and there is a layer of limestone within the loamy topsoil. Mitterbergen stretches from Salmannsdorf right up to Agnesgasse, and not only is it one of the most prized and homogeneous vineyards; with its seventeen hectares (42 acres), it is also one of the largest. Reissern: Drought is a perennial problem in the perfectly situated Reissern vineyard it is the triangular elongation of the Mitterbergen to Agnesgasse. Hofstädten: Mineral soil and superb exposure produces expressive and powerful wines. WIENWEIN Page 11
9. WienWein and the Wiener Gemischter Satz The Wiener Gemischter Satz has a long viticultural tradition in Vienna. The vines of different grape varieties literally grow mixed up in a vineyard. These grapes are harvested, pressed and processed together, just like a single variety. Unlike a blend, which refers to single varietal wines that are fermented separately and usually blended shortly before bottling, the assemblage of the mixed field wine occurs naturally in the vineyard. Thus, the Wiener Gemischter Satz is not only an ideal wine that reflects regional typicity and terroir, but also a symbol and reflection of Viennese culture. WienWein respects the Wiener Gemischter Satz as the largest and longest established speciality in Vienna s wine history. The group, which was founded in 2006, has been actively involved in the ongoing replanting of mixed variety vineyards in the wine region of Vienna. Wines are produced according to qualityconscious viticultural methods and careful vinification, and these mixed field blend wines can be measured up against the best varietal wines, and reflect the origin of the wines in its most complex form. It is ultimately due to the persistence of the WienWein group that the Wiener Gemischter Satz could experience the renaissance, that one would have thought hardly possible. The blossoming of an almost forgotten speciality has become a cult wine thanks to the consistent work on quality, coupled with the determined administrative steps to amend the current wine law and commitment to improve the image of the wine. Any previous skepticism of this style of wine is, however, relinquished as soon as the wine itself the Wiener Gemischter Satz by a WienWein producer is poured and tasted. Today the Wiener Gemischter Satz is on everyone's lips. Many of Vienna s wine producers have joined the trend and revived this mixed field blend tradition in their vineyards. Once again, the Wiener Gemischter Satz has become an integral part of the Heuriger wine tavern, and has also found its way onto the wine lists of trendy bars and gourmet restaurants. Not just in Vienna, but you can find the Wiener Gemischter Satz in top restaurants around the world from New York to Tokyo, to the most hip and trendy wine bars of San Francisco. There seems to be no end to this boom. With the invincible mixture of Viennese charm, coupled with easy drinking, vital taste, the Wiener Gemischter Satz is set conquered the world of wine. It is an unprecedented success story that certainly allows the WienWein group to fly their flags. WIENWEIN Page 12
10. Wiener Gemischter Satz DAC The perserverance the WienWein Vienna Wine group has been rewarded, and the Regional Wine Committee of Vienna have protected the Wiener Gemischter Satz mixed field blend as the figurehead of Viennese viticulture. The committee applied for DAC status for the Wiener Gemischter Satz, and it was promptly approved. Effective from the 2013 vintage, the Wiener Gemischter Satz bears the Austrian seal of approval of the DAC Designation of Origin. The new regulation for the Wiener Gemischter Satz stipulates that for the production of the mixed field blend, at least three white quality wine grape varieties must be planted together in a Viennese vineyard. Additionally, this vineyard site needs to be recorded in the official Land Registry as a Wiener Gemischter Satz vineyard. The proportion of a single grape variety may not be higher than 50 percent, the third largest share must include at least ten percent of the wine. The alcohol content analysis may not exceed 12.5% by volume on the label, and the wine should not display any notable aromas or taste that derive from maturation in oak. The Wiener Gemischter Satz must be legally dry in style, yet may necessarily appear less dry on the palate. Sweet extract is permitted if the measured residual sugar is below 9 grams per litre. A single-vineyard Wiener Gemischter Satz DAC is also new. In this case, alcohol content analysis must display at least 12.5% by volume on the label, and the wine may only be released for sale after the 1 March in the year following the harvest. The Wiener Gemischte Satz DAC is a huge success for the WienWein producers. The origin brings rules and an extremely strict control with it. This is the best way to secure qualityconscious methods throughout the entire wine region in the long-term. In addition, the new regulations raise the profile of the origin of the Wiener Gemischter Satz wines, and the diversity of the region is reflected in the glass. Wine fom Vienna can be very different, depending on where it is from in the city. state the WienWein members. WIENWEIN Page 13
11. WienWein plants vineyard in the grounds of Schloss Schönbrunn Palace The majestic gardens of Schönbrunn Palace are amongst the most famous Baroque gardens in Europe. Yet, not many know that there was once a thriving viticulture here. The vineyard was called Liesenpfennig*, where vines were cultivated until the mid-18 th Century, and was situated where the Orangery is located today. In cooperation with the Schönbrunn Palace managing partners and the federal department for public gardens, WienWein have put together an exciting project: The historic vineyards were replanted, and the project is viewed as a contribution to the continued heritage of the Schönbrunn Palace and gardens, which at the same time offers a new attraction for the millions of visitors that visit the park each year. The new old vineyard is 1000 square metres in area, and is situated next to the Meidlinger Tor gate, opposite the new conference centre, and is entered via the Grünbergstraße. As was so typical for a vineyard in the old Viennese tradition, the vines are planted in the fashion of the Wiener Gemischter Satz with indigenous grape varieties, completely mixed. In Autumn 2012, the first harvest of the vineyard was celebrated with a feast. The sponsors, who had initially helped with planting the vines, were also present at harvest time and celebrated the very special blessing of the grapes. Even through the harvest yielded few grapes, the wine became a legend in its first year, with only 530 bottles of the Imperial crop being filled. Yet the result was impressive, and the inaugural vintage of the Wiener Gemischer Satz Liesenpfennig 2012 (13% alcohol by volume, 5.9 g/l of acidity) was a harmonious mixed blend of Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, Welschriesling (Italian Riesling), Neuburger, Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc), Zierfandler and Rotgipfler. The wine is dry, with layers of aromas and a fruity and spicy palate, making it a textbook example of this characterful Viennese wine tradition. A rebirth of an age old practice. SOS Kinderdorf Vienna Charity Auction For the WienWein group, it was clear that the tiny number of bottles of this special Wiener Gemischter Satz wine produced from the former vineyard of the Austrian Empress must go towards a worthwhile purpose. They created an online auction, in which wine lovers from around the world participated, and the sale of the wines brought in no less than 20,000 Euros. The sum was donated to the worthy SOS Kinderdorf charity in Vienna a safe haven for disadvantaged children. The cooperation with the SOS Kinderdorf charity continues. The 2013 vintage is now resting in the barrels and will be auctioned in Autumn 2014 at the time we shall be thinking about picking the 2014 grapes for the harvest. WIENWEIN Page 14
*The recorded name of the Liesenpfennig vineyard is described in the book Von der Katterburg zu Schönbrunn written by Elisabeth Hassmann and published by Böhlau in 2004. The following is cited on page 154/309: According to the land registry of 1428-58, the name changed from"in der obern Rein zum closter" (lit. the upper rows to the cloisters) to"ober Rein Liesen Pfennig negst dem thiergarten" (lit. upper rows Liesen Pfennig next to the zoo), as stated in the cadastre from 1637-1762. Later, the vineyard was simply referred to as Liesenpfennig. (see e.g. Qu.109 on page 543). WIENWEIN Page 15
11. Profiles of the 6 WienWein wineries 11.1 Weingut Christ, Jedlersdorf Working closely with nature, and with ambition and passion, the talented winemaker Rainer Christ continues to maintain the tradition that his family started over 400 years ago. The Christ family cultivates a number of very old vine sites, that are predominantly located on the Bisamberg and Nussberg vineyards. The winery was renovated and extended in 2005, with parts of the original building being lovingly restored with a mixture of natural stone, wood and concrete to create an aesthetically stylish and modern architecture. The Christ family prefer wines with structure and finesse; that reflect the characteristics of the Viennese soil, and Christ wines display diversity and complexity; an attribute appreciated by ever more wine connoisseurs. Their flagship wine is the Grüner Veltliner, with Rainer Christ also laying a focus on the production of white Pinot varieties and red wines. Best Vineyards Bruch: (Sub-site of Gabrissen) vineyard slope with silted deposits of terrace slate from the Ice Age, crystalline bedrock. Grape variety: Grüner Veltliner Falkenberg: High plateau with shell limestone sediments over weathered limestone, with a high content of chalk. Grape variety: Weißburgunder (Pinot Blanc) Wiesthalen: Vineyard slope set at a high altitude, loam and rich in clay minerals (magnesium and iron). Grape variety: Merlot Gabrissen: Sand and weathered limestone, loam, even slope with good drainage and warmth. Grape variety: Zweigelt Total acreage: 20 ha (approx. 50 acres) Total production: 120,000 bottles Share of white and red wines: 70% White, 30% Red Export: 25%, Germany, Switzerland, Sweden, Belgium, Netherlands, USA, England, Finland, Norway, Denmark, Taiwan, Korea, Singapore, Japan Contact: Weingut Rainer Christ Amtsstraße 10 14, 1210 Jedlersdorf T: +43 1 292 51 52 F: +43 1 292 51 52 53 info@weingut-christ.at www.weingut-christ.at WIENWEIN Page 16
11.2. Weingut Cobenzl, Grinzing Weingut Cobenzl looks back on a varied and rich heritage. As early as the 13 th Century, there is a record of wine growing on the Latisberg (better known today as Cobenzl), and in 1774, ownership of the estate was transferred to Johann Philipp Graf Cobenzl (hence the name of the winery today). He commissioned the construction of the palace with adjoining park, temples and pavilions, in which countless wild parties were celebrated. After Graf Cobenzl, the palace and estate changed hands several times, before the City of Vienna purchased the property in 1907. Over the course of the years, the estate gradually turned back to viticulture. In 1988, Thomas Podsednik was given the job of reviving the winery and to work on improving quality. With a long-term, sustainable plan in hand, coupled with a sheer focus on quality, Thomas Podsednik and his young team have succeeded in turning Weingut Cobenzl into one of the leading wineries in Vienna. Weingut Cobenzl cultivated around two-thirds of its vineyards in Grinzing and on the Nussberg. The unique micro-climate and the close vicinity of the Danube provide the ideal conditions for wines with delicate fruit and mineral character. Approximately 18 hectares of vines is cultivated in Bisamberg, with its warmer, drier south-facing vineyards and light, sandy soils produce Pinot variety wines with finesse. Best vineyards 19 th District, Grinzing, Nussberg Reisenberg: sub-site of the Nussberg, limestone over a layer of shell limestone Grüner Veltliner, Wiener Gemischter Satz DAC Seidenhaus: South-facing, medium-dense soil Weißburgunder (Pinot Blanc) Steinberg: South-west-facing, sandy and lime-rich soil Wiener Gemischter Satz DAC Bellevue: High altitude site, weathered limestone Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, Pinot Noir Pisenkopf: South-facing, very heavy soil, highly mineral Wiener Gemischter Satz DAC Pfeffer: South-facing, medium-dense soil Grüner Veltliner Nussberg: South-facing, medium-dense soil, very calcareous Riesling Wagenspaer: East-facing site, medium-dense soil with sandy loam Grüner Veltliner, Weißburgunder (Pinot Blanc), Wiener Gemischter Satz DAC 21 st District, Bisamberg Hofbreiten: South-facing, sany and clay marl Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, Weißburgunder (Pinot Blanc), Wiener Gemischter Satz, Blauer Zweigelt WIENWEIN Page 17
Magdalenenhof: South-east-facing site, medium to deep clay soils Blauer Zweigelt, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon Falkenberg: South-east-facing site, sandy loam Wiener Gemischter Satz DAC Total acreage: 50 ha (approx. 120 acres) Total production: approx. 200,000 bottles Share of white and red wines: 75% White, 35% Red Contact: Weingut Cobenzl Am Cobenzl 96, 1190 Vienna T: + 43 1 320 58 05 F: + 43 1 328 22 86 office@weingutcobenzl.at www.weingutcobenzl.at www.facebook.com/weingutcobenzl WIENWEIN Page 18
11.3. Weingut Edlmoser, Mauer The official records of the Edlmoser family winery date back to the year 1374. Every thought and step taken by the winery has been characterised by an uncompromising quality for generations. Perfect ripening conditions for the grapes prevail at the southern foothills of the Wienerwald the Vienna Woods in the wine-village of Mauer. Pannonian climate, coupled with regular precipitation, long hours of sunshine, fresh cool breezes from the forest and a wide diversity of soils results in wines with depth and complexity with fascinating spiciness. It's always the moment, that only makes a wine really perfect. Most significant sites Maurerberg, In Sätzen, Reisberg, Himmel, Kadolzberg. The local weathered limestone soil supports the red wines and full-bodied white wines. Clay-enriched limestone on the Kadolzberg site is favourable for the production of characterful, expressive white wines. Total vineyard area Fläche: 12.5 ha ( acres) Total production: approx. 80,000 bottles Share of white and red wine: 70 % white wine, 30 % red wine Export: approx. 10 % in Germany and rest of Europe Contact: Weingut Michael Edlmoser Maurer Lange Gasse 123, 1230 Vienna T + F: + 43 1 889 86 80 office@edlmoser.at www.edlmoser.at
11.4. Weingut Fuhrgassl-Huber, Neustift am Walde Some 41 years ago, Ernst and Gerti Huber, both passionate hosts, founded the Fuhrgassl-Huber wine estate and Heuriger tavern in Neustift am Walde. They also built their home, that is as architecturally aesthetic as it was back then, and was based on the plans by renowned Viennese Professor Walter von Hoesslin, a theatrical set designer and good friend of Ernst Huber. The vineyards are located directly behind the house. Over the years, the family Heuriger has gained celebrity status, with its extensive gardens, and for many years, it was the local hotspot in Vienna providing much needed refreshment for politicians after government negotiations or to host state guest visits. The Fuhrgassl-Huber Heuriger furthermore enjoy a special place in the wine tavern community in the city, and today it is managed by Theresa, the granddaughter of the founders. Although Ernst Huber always placed very high value on the quality of the wines right from the beginning, he never actually bottled his best single vineyard wines. Instead, these wines were served as his house wine. At the time, the business was all about the restaurant and hospitality. This changed a few years ago, and since his grandson Thomas Huber took over the estate in 2012, wine production has attracted increasing interest. Thomas Huber, 22 years old and a graduate of the School of Viticulture in Krems, knows exactly what he wants to achieve. He is a true Neustift native, and the village runs in his blood. This closeness to his origin has also had an effect on his philosophy when making wine. Thomas knows that he belongs to Neustift, and it is here that he wants to realise his goal of bringing the Fuhrgassl-Huber wines to the top of Vienna wine. There is certainly potential; the rest is down to hard work, dedication and patience. The cellar has recently been brought up to date with modern facilities, and step by step, work in the vineyards has been adapted to increased quality awareness. Thomas Huber combines his diligent pursuit of quality with an easy going approach. His methods seem straightforward, almost playful, but at its core, he remains extremely focused. WIENWEIN Page 20
His credo is that, It's important that every glass of wine tastes great. The wines range from the classic light-bodied wines to single-vineyard wines with complexity made from the best sites of Vienna. The young winemaker is very fortunate to have his grandfather and mentor Ernst Huber at his side, who knows every inch of the Viennese vineyards. In fact Ernst Huber planted many of the vineyards with his own hands 30 years ago. With his grandfather's tradition, combined with his own flair and style, it is no wonder that we shall be hearing a lot more from Thomas Huber. Best vineyards and soil profile Wien 19, Neustift am Walde Neustift am Walde: Amongst the steepes vineyards in Vienna, high-altitude, southfacing with stony, sany loam soils rich in chalk. Grape varieties: Neuburger, Wiener Gemischter Satz DAC, Chardonnay, Weißburgunder (Pinot Blanc), Muskateller (Yellow Muscat), Sauvignon Blanc, Rheinriesling, Wien 19, Grinzing Nussberg Preussen: Sub-vineyard of Nußberg, limestone, mineral rich limestone. Grape varieties: Traminer, Rheinriesling Schenkenberg: south-west facing sites, chalk and sandstone gelegene Riede, Kalksandgestein. Grape variety: Weißburgunder (Pinot Blanc) Kaasgraben: Moderate altitude, weathered limestone soils. hoch gelegen, verwitterter Kalkstein. Grape variety: Chardonnay Schönherr: Small site located within Neustift. Grape variety: Grüner Veltliner Total vineyard area: 31 ha (76 acres) 26 ha in Neustift, 5 ha Nussberg Total production: approx. 90,000 bottles Contact: Weingut Fuhrgassl-Huber Neustift am Walde 68, 1190 Vienna Tel.: +43 1 440 14 05 weingut@fuhrgassl-huber.at www.fuhrgassl-huber.at WIENWEIN Page 21
11.5. Weingut Mayer am Pfarrplatz, Heiligenstadt The heritage of the Mayer family of Heiligenstadt and the estate can be traced back to the Battle of Vienna in 1683. Hans Schmid, founder of the international advertising agency GGK, purchased the wine estate from the pioneer wine-grower Franz Mayer in 2007. He then initiated steps to modernise production methods in the cellar, to enable a separate vinification of the wide diversity of vineyards. Responsibility for wine production was passed to Gerhard J. Lobner in 2008, who was born into a wine-growing family in southern Weinviertel. He knows his vineyards in Vienna like the back of his hand, and with the supportive and dynamic team behind him, he has brought the quality of the wines amongst Austria s best. Thus the idea of a traditional operation, the modern works perfectly crafted and sustainably has been realized. These dynamics can be felt in the wines. The Mayer am Pfarrplatz wines strive to be typically Austrian; to coin the typicity of Vienna. Austrian indigenous grape varieties are the focus. The wines excel in the expression of their fresh, fruity style with precision, fresh bouquet, vibrancy, aroma purity and their approachable drinking style. Best vineyards and soil composition Nussberg: Shell-limestone. Grape varieties: Riesling, Wiener Gemischter Satz DAC, Pinot Noir Preussen: sub-zone of Nussberg, limestone. Grape variety: Riesling Schenkenberg: South-west situated vines, calcerous sandstone over granite. Grape variety: Grüner Veltliner Alsegg: south-facing site, gravel soils. Grape variety: Riesling Total vineyard area: 70 ha (172 acres) Total production: approx. 300,000 bottles Share of red and white wine: 90 % white wine, 10 % red wine Export: 30 %, Belgium, China, Denmark, Germany, Finland, Great Britain, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Poland, Switzerland, Czech Republic, USA, Russia WIENWEIN Page 22
Contact: Weingut Mayer am Pfarrplatz Am Pfarrplatz 2, 1190 Vienna T: +43/1 33 60 197 20 mayer@pfarrplatz.at www.pfarrplatz.at WIENWEIN Page 23
11.6 Weingut Wieninger, Stammersdorf The internationally renowned winemaker Fritz Wieninger has taken a pioneering role in the new development of Vienna wine. The reputation that Vienna wine enjoys today is largely thanks to his efforts. Wieninger took over his 100 year old family estate from his parents in the 1980s, that lies on the foothills of Bisamberg. His first task was to concentrate on producing wine in bottles, and be began experimenting with new grape varieties, and he introduced new winemaking techniques, such as temperature-regulated fermentation, maturation in oak barriques, as transformed the image of the Gemütlichkeit (laid-back approach) of the Viennese wine-growers. Being a winemaker von drübern (beyond the Danube), Wieninger forced himself into the heart of viticulture in old Vienna by purchasing vineyards on Bisamberg and on Nussberg. Fritz Wieninger has managed all of his vineyards according to the bio-dynamic principles developed by Rudolf Steiner since 2008. I try to get the best out of the variety of my grapes, explains Wieninger, to bring the differences in terroir and in the vintage; as well as the characteristics of the vineyard into the bottle. I see this as my greatest challenge. Best vineyard and soil profiles Preussen: Sub-site of the Nussberg, limestone, highly mineral. Grape varieties: Riesling, Grüner Veltliner, Traminer Rosengartl: Filet piece of Nussberg, limestone with shall-limestone topsoil. Grape varieties: Wiener Gemischter Satz DAC Ulm: Sub-zone of Nußberg in its most easterly part, adjacent to the Danube. Highly expressive with distinctive limestone soil, extremely rich in lime, like a coral reef. Grape varieties: Wiener Gemischter Satz DAC Kaasgraben: relatively high altitude, weathered limestone. Grape variety: Grüner Veltliner Herrenholz: sandy, loamy loess, also calcareous elements. Grape varieties: Grüner Veltliner, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir Grand Select WIENWEIN Page 24
Breiten & Kritschen: sandy, loamy loess, rich in chalk. Grape variety: Top Chardonnay Jungenberg: Sandy, loamy loess; rich in chalk. Grape varieties: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling Wiesthalen: Soil with clay and minerals. Grape varieties: Grüner Veltliner, Chardonnay, Blauburgunder (Pinot Noir), Sauvignon Blanc, Muskateller (Yellow Muscat) Total vineyard area: 69 ha (170 acres) Total production: approx. 350,000 bottles Share of white and red wine production: 65 % white wine, 35% red wine Export: 35 % of the produktion is exported to the following countries: Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Czech Republic, The Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Great Britain, Spain, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Russia, France, Luxembourg, Portugal, Latvia ettland, Hungary, Estonia, Turkey, Ukraine, Aserbaidschan, USA, Canada, Hong Kong, Puerto Rico, Singapore, Sri Lanka, the Maledives, Japan, Peru, South Korea, the Cayman Islands, Brasil Contact: Weingut Fritz Wieninger A-1210 Vienna, Stammersdorfer Strasse 31 T: + 43 1 290 10 12 F: + 43 1 290 10 123 weingut@wieninger.at www.wieninger.at WIENWEIN Page 25