Among the most important red wine origins in Lower Austria are Carnuntum and the Thermenregion. Both border Burgenland to the south and Vienna to the north or northeast, respectively. For its red wines of origin, Carnuntum DAC includes Zweigelt and Blaufränkisch, while blends may contain up to one third of other approved quality grape varieties. In the Thermenregion, shaped historically by the influence of Cistercian monks, Pinot Noir and the similarly Burgundian-styled St. Laurent are the most significant red varieties. Recent vintages clearly illustrate the direction Austrian red wines are taking – towards an ideal balance of fruit, freshness and charm. Those seeking out these wines can recognise them by the EU-protected designation of origin, the red-white-red banderole on the bottle neck, and the official quality wine control number on the label.
Lower Austria in Red