Wine
News
If you miss these…
One of many VieVinum highlights: Schilcher wines from Stefan and Verena Langmann
© Anna Stöcher
…you only have yourself to blame. We have the lowdown on who you’ll meet at Austria's flagship wine fair, VieVinum 2026, which wines you can taste and the inside word on unmissable events.
Österreichische Traditionsweingüter
Österreichische Traditionsweingüter offer a glimpse of the future both in and outside the fair. In addition to tasting opportunities with members of Austria’s leading winemakers' association – all of whom are outstanding figures from the eight wine regions of Kamptal, Kremstal, Traisental, Wagram, Thermenregion, Vienna, Carnuntum and Weinviertel – there are ample opportunities for in-depth insights and enjoyment across all three days, starting with a press conference on Saturday (16 May).
On Sunday, the trade audience can look forward to two highlights: the strictly limited Winemakers’ Dinners, where two ÖTW members each will personally present their philosophies and selected wines. That will be followed by the ÖTW After VieVinum Party in the Volksgarten Pavilion, featuring superb wines, entertainment and dancing until late into the night.
Download: ÖTW winemakers at VieVinum 2026
Single Vineyard Summit 2026
From Monday 7 September 2026 to Thursday 10 September 2026, Grafenegg castle (Austria) will play host to the Single Vineyard Summit organised by the Österreichische Traditionsweingüter. At this prestigious tasting event, which is reserved for industry professionals, wines from Austria’s finest single vineyards can be sampled over the course of four days. Pre-registration is now open.
United Nations of Blaufränkisch
The Blaufränkisch variety is regarded as the ‘Queen of Central Europe’ – and the red carpet is being rolled out for it at VieVinum. 'United Nations of Kékfrankos – Blaufränkisch – Burgund Mare – Frankovka – Modra Frankinja – Lemberger' showcases the diversity and potential of this variety – with 100 wines from 80 wineries across seven countries and more than 20 regions. Here, visitors can experience how Blaufränkisch has managed to become a favourite among sommeliers in recent years and why international experts predict it has a bright future.
The Carnuntum Challenge
Wineries from Austria's eastern region of Carnuntum have devised an exciting tasting concept in collaboration with Master of Wine Caro Maurer. Whilst masterclasses and seminars usually aim to provide participants with as much information as possible about the region and the wines, Carnuntum wineries have decided to turn the tables at their event during VieVinum.
A selection of wines from the Carnuntum region will be served in a blind tasting on Saturday at 12:15pm in the Künstlerzimmer, and the guests can then try to identify the winery, grape varieties, vintage and vineyard behind each one.
For professionals only
Carnuntum, Austria Franz & Christine Netzl winery
Less power, more precision: Christina Netzl demonstrates that the native red Zweigelt variety doesn’t have to be heavy to make an impression. Her wines from Carnuntum are characterised by clarity, structure and vigour.
Unaffected by trends and with her distinct signature, Christina focuses on village and single vineyard wines that consistently emphasise origin, grape variety and vintage. She deliberately reinterprets Zweigelt, presenting wines that are elegant, precise and with a sense of tension, rather than opulent and heavy. A style that stands out from the expected and reveals the variety’s potential anew. This approach of working in harmony with nature, underpinned by a strong sense of tradition, is demonstrated with her new 'RESI loves' project. Developed with her family including her daughter, husband and brother-in-law, it epitomises a new form of enjoyment: not a de-alcoholised copy, but a distinctive alternative with character. Christina Netzl stands for wines with character and provenance – and for a Carnuntum that exudes self-confidence.
Leithaberg, Austria Esterházy winery
For three centuries, Esterházy has been renowned for setting new standards with its pioneering viticultural practices in Leithaberg in the Burgenland region. Now, this organic winery is once again leading the way when it comes to sparkling wines. Discover its rare trio of Sekts at VieVinum made from 100 percent Blaufränkisch grapes: Grosse Reserve Blanc de Noir Brut Nature 2019, the new 2023 vintage of Reserve Rosé Brut and the Brut NV. Why does this established producer rely entirely on Blaufränkisch when it comes to expressing its terroir in sparkling form? You’ll find the answer at VieVinum.
Mittelburgenland, Austria
Gesellmann winery
Gesellmann winery in Burgenland is one of Austria’s most influential estates and is renowned for its distinctive style of red wine, particularly its Blaufränkisch. With a keen understanding of terroir, sustainable vineyard management and precise winemaking techniques, Gesellmann produces wines of impressive structure, depth and longevity. Whether it’s a powerful Blaufränkisch, such as their Hochberc, or internationally inspired cuvées, like their Bela Rex, these wines combine finesse with expression and authentically reflect their origins. The Gesellmanns will be presenting their full range of magnificent wines in the beautiful ballroom of the Hofburg at VieVinum. Naturally, they will also be bringing along their legendary Cuvée G.
Carnuntum, Austria Dorli Muhr winery
Anyone wishing to experience Blaufränkisch should definitely try a Spitzerberg from Dorli Muhr. Her wines from Carnuntum impressively demonstrate just how differently this grape variety can be interpreted: remarkable elegance, soft and deeply mineral. Even her village wine ‘Samt & Seide’ (Velvet & Silk) lives up to its name – delicate, smooth and wonderfully balanced. After more than 20 years of consistent work, Dorli Muhr’s distinctive style has established her as one of the absolute leaders when it comes to Blaufränkisch.
Leithaberg, Austria Kirchknopf winery
When Michael Kirchknopf took over his grandparents’ winery in Kleinhöflein in 2014, he had a clear vision: “Right from the start, I focused on terroir and style, as well as two grape varieties, Chardonnay and Blaufränkisch.” He cultivates 15 hectares of small plots characterised by limestone and slate soils. Michael Kirchknopf brings the authentic character of the terroir to the glass – with plenty of time, patience, craftsmanship and minimal intervention. The estate is currently in the process of converting to organic farming. “Our wines show where they come from – pure, elegant and mineral,” is how Kirchknopf describes his style.
So how do the wines taste? The finely mineral, elegant and delicately fruity Chardonnay Lagenwerk®️ Leithaberg DAC 2024 is our must-try tip at VieVinum. Grown on limestone-rich soils in small, carefully selected plots, this wine is an authentic and multifaceted expression of the Leithaberg terroir, having been allowed to mature slowly and undisturbed in oak barrels. The wine is expressive, structured and precise, displaying depth whilst also possessing a certain lightness, and has great ageing potential.
West Styria, Austria Langmann winery
Schilcher, a rosé wine made from the indigenous Blauer Wildbacher grape variety, is the internationally renowned trademark of Western Styria. Some of its best brand ambassadors hail from Langmann winery, where maturity, terroir and finesse combine to create a rosé with depth and vibrant acidity. Even international figures such as Elisabeth Gabay MW count it amongst the most exciting rosés outside Provence. At VieVinum, Verena and Stefan Langmann will be bringing exciting single vineyard Schilcher, Sauvignon Blanc influenced by the nearby Koralpe mountain range and unique sparkling wines.
Feuersbrunn, Wagram
Bernhard Ott winery
Few epitomise world-class Grüner Veltliner like Bernhard Ott. His winery has been rooted in Feuersbrunn in the Wagram region just north of the Danube for four generations. Through consistent biodynamic practices in the vineyard, a deep understanding of the diverse terroir and minimal intervention in the cellar, he produces wines of finesse, balance and depth. Top ratings from leading wine critics and numerous listings in the world’s finest restaurants confirm the uncompromising quality commitment of Bernhard Ott and his team. At VieVinum, Bernhard Ott winery will present the exciting new releases and legendary single vineyard wines. A must-try for all Grüner Veltliner enthusiasts.
Mittelburgenland, Austria Kerschbaum winery
Michael Kerschbaum followed in the footsteps of his father Paul and now cultivates around 40 hectares of vineyards in central Burgenland. Realising that red wines are often drunk too early, in 2015 Michael decided to make Blaufränkisch available to connoisseurs at its peak of maturity. Ten years later, Blaufränkisch 'X' was launched in October 2025. This year, it celebrates its debut at VieVinum. In addition, classics from the Kerschbaum estate such as Impresario (2023), Paul Kerschbaum (2022) and Opera (2022) cuvées, along with Blaufränkisch from various vineyards, have also made the journey to Vienna.
Vulkanland, Styria, Austria Krispel estate
Stefan Krispel understands better than almost anyone else how to let the terroir of Vulkanland in southeastern Styria speak through his wines. His vines are planted on the foothills of the extinct Stradner-Kogel volcano, rooted in soils characterised by basalt. Visitors to VieVinum can sample Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Blanc from the top Neusetzberg and Hochstrandl vineyards, amongst others. Look out for his 2018 Sauvignon Blanc Ried Hochstrandl in particular as it recently received the Chairman’s Award at the Volcanic Wine Awards as well as a top rating from Jancis Robinson.
Traisental, Austria Preiß winery
Cool Traisental with its unique limestone soils might fly under the radar at times, but probably not for much longer. Viktoria Preiß impressively demonstrates why this small wine region west of Vienna punches above its weight. Together with her partner Klaus Wiebogen, she has raised the family winery to a new level of quality and successfully guided it towards organic certification. At the heart of the estate lies the Brunndoppel monopole vineyard, whose Grüner Veltliner and Chardonnay possess international potential thanks to their elegance and precision. At VieVinum, Viktoria Preiß will present the wines, certified organic since 2025, in their new bottle design for the first time. The tasting will be complemented by mature vintages and non-alcoholic alternatives.
Nahe, Germany Prinz Salm winery
For more than 800 years, Prince Felix’s family has been cultivating the unique vineyard of Felseneck in Wallhausen – a truly remarkable spot. Located on the edge of the forest, this south-facing vineyard boasts a soil type unique in Germany: green schist. Prinz Salm winery will not only be showcasing the matured Grosses Gewächs (GG) from this exceptional site at VieVinum, but will also be opening a rare bottle of the 2020 Felseneck Riesling Brut VDP.Sekt Prestige (50 months on the lees, 801 bottles at €189 each, available via allocation from the winery).
The best thing about a wine tasting is the beer afterwards!
Austria’s finest brewers at VieVinum 2026
Who wouldn’t enjoy treating themselves to an invigorating sip from a glass of cool beer as a reward for hours of focused wine tasting? The cosy CulturBrauer Lounge is located right in front of the Hofburg and is open from 11 am to 7 pm on all three days of the fair, exclusively for exhibitors and visitors.
The CulturBrauer Lounge offers the opportunity to engage in one-on-one chats with some of Austria’s finest brewers. This is a special drawcard for restaurateurs and sommeliers seeking to differentiate themselves by having a hand-picked selection of beers as well as a comprehensive wine list. The CulturBrauer Lounge is also a retreat, an oasis for business discussions in a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for unwinding at the end of the day. There is a choice of eight perfectly chilled beers on tap, beers from all around Austria, brewed from the finest ingredients and using distinctive regional recipes – ranging from elegant Pils beer and fruity Pale Ales to new non-alcoholic varieties.
The CulturBrauer group is made up of eight traditional breweries from across Austria: Braucommune in Freistadt (Upper Austria), Privatbrauerei Hirt (Carinthia), Mohrenbrauerei (Vorarlberg), Brauerei Murau (Styria), Brauerei Schloss Eggenberg (Upper Austria), Bierbrauerei Schrems (Lower Austria), Trumer Privatbrauerei (Salzburg) and Privatbrauerei Zwettl (Lower Austria). They are a group of regionally based independent breweries that have come together to promote Austrian beer culture and revitalise the diversity of beer in Austria.
