Archive for the ‘Austrian Wine’ Category

Burgenland is a place of contrast with the rest of Austria. It is known for its wine, the composer Joseph Haydn, and, yes, storks. Lying east and south of Vienna and bordering Hungary, Burgenland lies at the edge of the relatively hot and dry Pannonian plain, an ancient sea bed.

Summer's Day On Neusiedlersee

Its prominent feature is the Neusiedlersee, today a major water recreational area for Austrians and especially the Viennese. One can rent boats, go wind surfing, bird watching in this wildlife sactuary, and just enjoy the setting by sitting on an outdoor patio, having a glass of wine and soaking up the scenery.

Although a relatively large lake, some 200 square miles, the Neusiedlersee is very shallow, measuring only 5 feet at its deepest point. Nonetheless it basically controls the micro-climate in the area and contributes to it’s major product – wine, which is proudly served at the local Heuringens (wine bars) and restaurants.

Entrance and Courtyard - Heuringen in Rust

By the way, don’t mistake the Heuringens as just being wine bars, along with the wine, the establishment may serve cold cuts, pastries and frequently, most also serve great home cooked local fare.  Read more... (496 words, 5 images, estimated 1:59 mins reading time)

Heurigen – what a treat. Good food, great local wine and a very comfortable down home setting. And please do take your time, no rush to get you out of your seat here.

Heurigen Setting

Vienna sits in the heart of Austria’s wine producing region, amidst which you’ll find the Heurigen (also referred to as Heurige, or Heuriger) – Vienna Wine Taverns - an integral part of Vienna’s culture and ambiance and a definite must visit. Stop at a Heurigen, sip one of that establishment’s wines along with some great cold cuts and enjoy this treasure and tradition of Austria and Vienna in specific. Many Heurigens also serve great home cooked food and will have fresh backed pastries, yummm. Definitely not a dieters paradise but, who cares when you’re out to enjoy.

Historically, due to a decree passed in 1784, today there are some 20,000 wine producing estates in Austria; with the majority in the Eastern part of the country and Vienna sits in the middle of it. There are scores of vineyards all around Vienna and nearby are areas such as the Wachau Valley region, which offers up a bounty of vineyards on its hillsides and steep slopes.  Read more... (602 words, 3 images, estimated 2:24 mins reading time)