The winery
Domäne Wachau
A wine cooperative based in Dürnstein in the Wachau Valley (Austria), renowned for its regionally expressive white wines (especially Grüner Veltliner and Riesling) and for its terroir-focused, sustainable and careful winemaking.
- Wachau, Niederösterreich · Austria
- Since 1938
- 13 products
The story
The estate's origins are documented as far back as the Middle Ages. The historic complex and the vineyards passed over time to several noble families; after the transfer of parcels from the Starhemberg to local growers, the site developed into a growers' cooperative. In the 20th century the cooperative adopted various names and has operated as Domäne Wachau since the late 2000s; the organization brings together hundreds of member-growers who cultivate the steep terraces of the Wachau.
Production philosophy
Craftsmanship, respect for the terroir and precision in the vineyard and cellar: Domäne Wachau emphasizes the grapes' inherent quality, agricultural practices focused on biodiversity and soil health, and low-intervention winemaking. The estate has undertaken sustainability and certification initiatives and promotes ongoing training for its growers.
Terroir and vineyards
Wachau Valley, on the steep terraces along the Danube around Dürnstein. The grapes come from numerous renowned Rieden/contrade of the Wachau, including Achleiten, Loibenberg, Kellerberg, Axpoint, Tausendeimerberg and other exposures typical of the valley's gneiss cliffs.
Awards and recognition
Public highlights include awards in national competitions and international mentions; historically cited as "International Winery of the Year" by Wine & Spirit and included in Forbes World's 50 Best Wineries.
Characteristics
- Grape varieties
- Grüner Veltliner
- Riesling
- Müller-Thurgau
- Neuburger
- Pinot Blanc
- Chardonnay
- Gelber Muskateller
- Blauer Zweigelt
- Pinot Noir
- St. Laurent
- Roter Traminer
- Hectares
- 440.0
- Bottles per year
- 2500000
What makes it distinctive
- A cooperative bringing together hundreds of winegrowers from the steep terraces of the Wachau.
- Strong focus on Grüner Veltliner and Riesling from single vineyards.
- Sustainable/organic approach and sustainability certification adopted since 2018.
- Historic winery in Dürnstein and modern winemaking facilities
- "Backstage" line for experimental wines
