Discover Mittelburgenland: Austria’s Red Wine Haven
Nestled in the heart of Burgenland, Mittelburgenland is a wine lover’s paradise. This region, known as “Blaufränkischland,” is famous for its bold red wines and picturesque landscapes.
Towns and Villages
Explore charming towns like Deutschkreutz, the unofficial capital of Mittelburgenland. Horitschon and Neckenmarkt offer authentic Austrian experiences with their historic centers and wine taverns.
Must-Visit Locations:
- Deutschkreutz Castle
- Horitschon’s Wine Educational Trail
- Neckenmarkt’s traditional Kellergasse (cellar lane)
Wine Producers
Mittelburgenland boasts numerous top-quality wineries. Visit family-run estates and large cooperatives to taste the region’s signature Blaufränkisch wines.
Notable Wineries:
- Weingut Gesellmann in Deutschkreutz
- K+K Kirnbauer in Deutschkreutz
- Weingut Kerschbaum in Horitschon
- Weingut Iby in Horitschon
Many wineries offer tours and tastings, but it’s best to book in advance, especially during peak season.
Accommodations
Stay close to the vineyards for an immersive wine experience. Choose from charming guesthouses, boutique hotels, or wine-themed accommodations.
Recommended Stays:
- Weinhotel Kirchknopf in Gols
- Hotel Das Eisenberg in Deutsch Schützen
- Pension Vintner’s Lodge in Deutschkreutz
Dining
Mittelburgenland’s cuisine pairs perfectly with its wines. Try local specialties at traditional taverns or upscale restaurants.
Top Dining Spots:
- Restaurant Zur Traube in Horitschon
- Gasthaus Ochs in Deutschkreutz
- Vinothek Kästle in Neckenmarkt
Don’t miss the opportunity to try local dishes like Blaufränkisch-braised beef or Krautfleckerl (cabbage pasta) paired with regional wines.
Wine Shops & Bars
Mittelburgenland offers numerous options for wine enthusiasts to explore and purchase local wines. Many wineries have their own shops, but there are also dedicated wine stores and bars.
Recommended Spots:
- Vinothek Mittelburgenland in Deutschkreutz: A cooperative wine shop featuring wines from multiple local producers
- Weinbar Rotweinhaus in Horitschon: A cozy wine bar offering a wide selection of regional wines by the glass
- Weinhandlung Schubert in Neckenmarkt: A family-run wine shop with an extensive collection of Mittelburgenland wines
Many shops offer shipping services, allowing you to send your favorite wines home.
Other Shops
While wine is the main attraction, Mittelburgenland also offers unique local products and souvenirs.
Local Specialties:
- Kürbiskernöl (pumpkin seed oil) from local producers
- Handmade chocolates at Confiserie Leschanz in Deutschkreutz
- Artisanal cheeses from Käseladen Mittelburgenland in Horitschon
Attractions
Beyond wine, Mittelburgenland offers cultural and natural attractions for visitors to enjoy.
Must-See Sights:
- Landesmuseum Burgenland in Eisenstadt: Learn about the region’s history and culture
- Naturpark Landseer Berge: Enjoy hiking trails and scenic views
- Burg Lockenhaus: Explore a medieval castle with stunning architecture
Consider renting bikes to explore the region’s beautiful landscapes and vineyards.
Events
Mittelburgenland hosts various wine-related events throughout the year, offering visitors unique experiences and tastings.
Annual Highlights:
- Blaufränkisch Tage (June): A multi-day celebration of the region’s signature grape variety
- Mittelburgenland DAC Cup (November): A prestigious wine competition showcasing the best local wines
- Advent in Mittelburgenland (December): Christmas markets featuring mulled wine and local specialties
Check local event calendars for specific dates and smaller wine festivals in individual villages.
Appellations
Understanding Mittelburgenland’s wine appellations helps appreciate the region’s diverse wine offerings.
Key Appellations:
- Mittelburgenland DAC: Focuses on Blaufränkisch wines, with Classic and Reserve categories
- Burgenland: A broader appellation allowing for various grape varieties and styles
Look for the DAC (Districtus Austriae Controllatus) designation on labels for wines that meet strict quality standards.
Grape Varieties
Mittelburgenland is known for its red wines, particularly those made from Blaufränkisch. This grape variety thrives in the region’s unique terroir.
Other important grape varieties include:
- Zweigelt
- St. Laurent
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Merlot
White grape varieties, though less common, include Welschriesling and Chardonnay.
Main Wine Styles
Mittelburgenland produces bold, full-bodied red wines with rich tannins and deep color. Blaufränkisch wines are the stars of the region.
Key wine styles include:
- Single-varietal Blaufränkisch
- Red blends (often including Zweigelt and international varieties)
- Rosé wines
- Limited production of white wines
Food Specialties
Burgenland’s cuisine pairs perfectly with its robust red wines. Local specialties include:
- Paprikahendl: Chicken with paprika sauce
- Krautfleckerl: Pasta with cabbage
- Grenadiermarsch: Potatoes and pasta dish
- Esterhazy Torte: Layered cake with buttercream
Many restaurants in the region offer wine-pairing menus featuring local dishes and wines.
Drives & Walks
Explore Mittelburgenland’s picturesque landscapes and vineyards through scenic drives and walks.
Wine Roads
- Blaufränkischland Wine Road: A 35-kilometer route connecting major wine towns
- Burgenland Wine Road: A longer route covering the entire Burgenland region
Hiking Trails
- Naturpark Landseer Berge: Offers various hiking trails with vineyard views
- Geschriebenstein-Írottkő Nature Park: Cross-border park with hiking opportunities
Itineraries
Weekend Wine Getaway
A two-day itinerary focusing on Mittelburgenland’s wine experience:
- Day 1: Visit Deutschkreutz for winery tours and tastings
- Day 2: Explore Horitschon and its surrounding vineyards
Week-long Burgenland Adventure
A comprehensive tour of the region:
- Days 1-2: Mittelburgenland wine towns
- Days 3-4: Lake Neusiedl area
- Days 5-6: Southern Burgenland
- Day 7: Eisenstadt, the capital of Burgenland
Getting There & Around
Mittelburgenland is easily accessible from major Austrian cities:
- By Car: 1-hour drive from Vienna, 2 hours from Graz
- By Train: Regular services to Deutschkreutz from Vienna (2 hours)
- Nearest Airport: Vienna International Airport (VIE)
Renting a car is recommended for exploring the region’s wineries and villages.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal times to visit Mittelburgenland are:
- Spring (April-May): Mild weather, fewer crowds
- Fall (September-October): Harvest season, wine festivals
Summer can be hot, while winters are cold with occasional snow.
Sustainability Efforts
Mittelburgenland’s wine industry is embracing sustainability:
- Organic Viticulture: Many wineries use organic practices
- Biodynamic Farming: Some producers follow biodynamic principles
- Solar Energy: Increasing use of solar panels in wineries
Look for certified organic wines when tasting or purchasing.
Language Tips
While German is the official language, many in the wine industry speak English.
Useful wine-related phrases:
- “Prost!” – Cheers!
- “Weingut” – Winery
- “Verkostung” – Tasting
- “Rotwein/Weißwein” – Red wine/White wine
Further Resources
For more information on Mittelburgenland’s wine scene:
Consider downloading wine apps like Vivino for on-the-go tasting notes and reviews.