Thermenregion wine region: Where tradition meets terroir
The Thermenregion – wine country between the Vienna Woods and the Vienna Basin
The Thermenregion wine region lies in the heart of Lower Austria and stretches from the southern edge of Vienna to the area around Wiener Neustadt. Nestled between the Vienna Woods and the Vienna Basin, this region is known not only for its wines, but also for its warm thermal springs. Even the Romans appreciated the combination of fertile soil, mild climate and gentle hills – a legacy that is still evident in viticulture today.
The gentle chain of hills at the foot of the Vienna Woods creates ideal conditions for vine cultivation. Here, where the cool influence of the north meets the warmer air of the south, white and red wines of impressive finesse and authenticity thrive.
History and development of viticulture in the Thermenregion
The history of the Thermenregion is closely linked to the development of Austrian viticulture. The first vineyards were planted as early as the Middle Ages, and later the monasteries made viticulture an integral part of regional life.
The region experienced a particular boom in the 19th century, when new grape varieties were introduced and old ones rediscovered. Today, the Thermenregion combines this long tradition with modern vinification and sustainable cultivation methods.
The creation of the Thermenregion DAC has given the wines a protected designation of origin that guarantees authenticity and quality – a decisive step for the region's international reputation.
Viticulture and vinification – craftsmanship with vision
Viticulture in the Thermenregion is characterised by manual labour and mindfulness. The winegrowers attach great importance to sustainable cultivation of the vineyards, pay attention to biodiversity and focus on gentle vinification.
The influence of the Vienna Woods and the cool air currents from the north produce wines with clear fruit and fine acidity. In the south, on the other hand, the warmer climate produces more powerful, extract-rich wines that reflect the richness of the soils.
Thermenregion DAC – Origin with character
Thermenregion DAC is the official designation for quality wines from this region. The DAC system (Districtus Austriae Controllatus) guarantees that the wines originate exclusively from the defined region and reflect the typical style of the Thermenregion.
Only wines that meet strict quality guidelines are allowed to bear this designation of origin. These include clear specifications regarding grape varieties, vinification, alcohol content and the origin of the grapes.
With the DAC classification, the Thermenregion is now on a par with the most important DAC areas in Austria.
Bad Vöslau – the heart of southern viticulture
Bad Vöslau, located at the southern end of the Thermenregion, is considered the centre of red wine culture and joie de vivre. The gentle slopes around the village are characterised by vineyards and small businesses that shape the character of the region with passion and knowledge.
Here, historic wineries combine modern technology with sustainable thinking. Its proximity to Vienna and Baden makes Bad Vöslau an important meeting place for wine lovers and a symbol of regional identity.
Gumpoldskirchen, Baden and Wiener Neustadt – diversity in a small area
Between Gumpoldskirchen, Baden and Wiener Neustadt, an impressive variety of grapevines and landscapes unfolds. While elegant Pinot Blanc and fragrant Chardonnay are produced in Baden, Rotgipfler Zierfandler of great depth thrive in Gumpoldskirchen.
The proximity to the city of Vienna ensures lively demand, while the rural villages around the Anninger preserve their tranquillity and authenticity. This combination of urbanity and nature is what makes the Thermenregion wine-growing area so unique.
Soil composition and climatic influence – the basis for success
The soils of the Thermenregion are as diverse as its wines. Brown limestone soils, loams, clays and weathered debris alternate and, together with the alluvial soil of the Vienna Basin, form a varied soil composition. This composition makes it possible to produce both powerful red wines and finely structured white wines.
The climate plays a decisive role in this. Warm, dry summers and cool nights promote aroma development and support the full ripening of the grapes. This climatic influence gives the region's wines their unmistakable character and extract-rich profile.
Rotgipfler and Zierfandler – the indigenous treasures
Among the indigenous varieties Zierfandler and Rotgipfler are two grape varieties that are cultivated almost exclusively in the Thermenregion. Often referred to collectively as ‘Rotgipfler Zierfandler’ or ‘Rotgipfler and Zierfandler’, they form the backbone of regional viticulture.
Rotgipfler produces full-bodied, elegant wines with a creamy structure and harmonious acidity. Zierfandler, on the other hand, also known as ‘Spätrot’, has a delicate aroma with nutty and exotic notes. Together, they produce cuvées of exceptional elegance and depth – a stylistic feature that makes the Thermenregion wine-growing area unique.
Pinot Noir – elegance and expression of the south
Pinot Noir also finds ideal conditions in the Thermenregion. The limestone-rich soils and warm climate of the south produce wines that balance fruit and finesse. With their velvety texture and fine tannin structure, these red wines are among the best of their kind in Austria.
In combination with St. Laurent and Blauer Portugieser, an impressive variety of red wine styles is created – from fruity everyday wines to complex, age-worthy top wines. The region's winemakers take advantage of the different layers and locations to fully exploit the potential of each grape variety.
St. Laurent and the red wines of the Thermenregion
St. Laurent is one of Austria's most distinctive red wines and is firmly rooted in the Thermenregion. It displays aromas of wild berries, cherries and spices – a reflection of the cool nights and sunny days that characterise the wine-growing region.
Together with Zweigelt and Pinot Noir, it forms the foundation for the region's red wines, which are recognised throughout Europe. Their fine structure and elegant expression make them excellent accompaniments to game, lamb or mature cheese.
Wine and food – a variety of delights from the Thermenregion
The culinary range of the Thermenregion is as diverse as its wines. A fresh Zierfandler is the perfect accompaniment to fried pike-perch, Viennese fried chicken or mushroom risotto. Rotgipfler harmonises with aromatic dishes such as Asian curry, veal ragout or baked pumpkin.
Pinot Noir and St. Laurent unfold their potential with venison medallions, saddle of lamb or pasta with truffles. Those who prefer lighter dishes can combine a Chardonnay or Pinot Blanc with asparagus, salads or seafood.
The region's wine taverns offer an authentic experience of the diversity of the Thermenregion – a meeting place of tradition, down-to-earthness and modern hospitality.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the Thermenregion wine-growing region
Which wine variety is typical of the Thermenregion?
The autochthonous varieties Rotgipfler and Zierfandler are typical of the Thermenregion. Both grape varieties originate exclusively from this region and characterise the distinctive style of the wines.
What is the Thermenregion?
The Thermenregion is a wine-growing region in Lower Austria that stretches south of Vienna along the Vienna Woods. It is known for its diverse white and red wines, as well as for its thermal springs and historic wine villages.
What wine-growing regions are there in Baden?
Parts of the Thermenregion, which is known for its DAC quality wines, are located in Baden and the surrounding area. Wines made from Rotgipfler, Zierfandler, St. Laurent and Pinot Noir are particularly popular here.
Where is the Victoria wine-growing region?
The Victoria wine-growing region is not located in Austria, but in Australia. It is known for its climatic diversity and high-quality red wines – but has no direct connection to the Thermenregion.