Austria

Question 1

What is the most important grape variety in Austria?

Answer 1

Grüner Veltliner

Question 2

What are the top five grapes in Austria?

Answer 2

1. Grüner Veltliner (white)
2. Zweigelt (red)
3. Welschriesling (Grasevina) (white)
4. Blaufränkisch (red)
5. Müller-Thurgau (white)

Question 3

What is the most important red grape variety in Austria?

Answer 3

Zweigelt

Question 4

What is the most important wine region in Austria?

Answer 4

Niederösterreich (Lower Austria)

Question 5

What was the big scandal that rocked Austria’s wine industry in 1985 and what was the impact?

Answer 5

1. There was a highly publicised scandal in 1985 when low quality wines where found containing ethylene glycol (a chemical often used in anti-freeze).
2. Today, Austria has some of the most rigorous quality and labelling standards

Question 6

What is Zweigelt?

Answer 6

1. The most planted red variety of Austria.
2. A cross between St Laurent (lighter like Pinot Noir) x Blaufrankisch.
3. Results are spicy, red fruit driven reds and rosé wines that can be served chilled

Question 7

What is Blaufränkisch

Answer 7

1. Red grape
2. Hungary, Austria and Germany, main growers
3. Rich, peppery black fruit
4. Zippy acidity