Discover Südsteiermark: Austria’s Wine Paradise
Südsteiermark, nestled in the heart of Styria, Austria, is a picturesque wine region known for its rolling hills, charming villages, and world-class wines. This guide will help you explore the best of Südsteiermark’s wine culture and local attractions.
Towns and Villages
The region boasts several quaint towns and villages worth visiting:
- Gamlitz: Known as the “capital” of Südsteiermark, it’s home to numerous wineries and the annual Gamlitz Wine Week.
- Ehrenhausen: Famous for its mausoleum and beautiful castle ruins.
- Leutschach: A charming village surrounded by vineyards and hiking trails.
- Kitzeck im Sausal: Europe’s highest wine-growing community, offering breathtaking views.
Wine Producers
Südsteiermark is home to numerous exceptional wineries. Here are some top producers to visit:
- Weingut Tement: Renowned for their Sauvignon Blanc and modern tasting room.
- Weingut Sattlerhof: Family-run winery producing excellent Sauvignon Blanc and Morillon.
- Weingut Frauwallner: Known for their Gelber Muskateller and stunning views.
- Weingut Polz: Offers a wide range of wines and a beautiful tasting area.
Accommodations
Stay in wine-themed accommodations for a unique experience:
- Weingut Lackner-Tinnacher: Modern rooms with vineyard views.
- Hotel & Spa Der Winzerhof: Luxury spa hotel in the heart of wine country.
- Genusshotel Riegersburg: Charming hotel with panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards.
- Weinrefugium Brolli: Cozy guesthouse with a focus on local wines and cuisine.
Dining
Indulge in local cuisine paired with regional wines at these restaurants:
- Kogel 3: Fine dining with breathtaking views of the vineyards.
- Buschenschank Schusterhansl: Traditional Styrian tavern serving local specialties.
- Restaurant Ratscher Landhaus: Gourmet restaurant with an extensive wine list.
- Weingut Erich & Walter Polz: On-site restaurant offering seasonal dishes and wine pairings.
Wine Shops & Bars
Explore Südsteiermark’s wine culture at these local shops and bars:
- Vinofaktur Genussregal: A vast wine shop showcasing over 1,000 regional wines.
- Weinbank Ehrenhausen: Historic wine cellar turned into a stylish tasting room.
- Weinothek Brolli: Cozy wine bar offering a curated selection of local wines.
- Vinothek Leutschach: Centrally located shop with an extensive range of Südsteiermark wines.
Other Shops
Discover local products and souvenirs at these unique shops:
- Kürbiskernhaus: Specializes in pumpkin seed products, a regional delicacy.
- Berghofer’s Genusswelt: Gourmet shop offering local cheeses, meats, and preserves.
- Ölmühle Hartlieb: Family-run mill producing high-quality pumpkin seed oil.
- Genussquelle Strohmaier: Artisanal food shop featuring regional specialties.
Attractions
Explore these must-see attractions in Südsteiermark:
- Südsteirische Weinstraße: Scenic wine route connecting charming villages and vineyards.
- Schloss Seggau: Historic castle with a wine cellar housing over 50,000 bottles.
- Erzherzog Johann Gedächtnisweg: Panoramic hiking trail offering stunning views of the region.
- Klapotetz: Traditional wooden windmills scattered throughout the vineyards.
Events
Experience Südsteiermark’s vibrant wine culture at these annual events:
- Steirische Weinwoche (Styrian Wine Week): Showcases regional wines in Gamlitz every September.
- Festspiele Südsteiermark: Classical music festival held in various vineyard locations during summer.
- Lange Tafel der Südsteiermark: Gourmet food and wine event featuring a 100-meter-long table in August.
- Spring Wine Festival: Celebrates the new vintage release in various locations throughout May.
Appellations
Südsteiermark’s wine-growing areas are divided into distinct appellations:
- Südsteiermark DAC: The main appellation, known for aromatic white wines.
- Sausal: Sub-region famous for its steep slopes and mineral-rich Sauvignon Blancs.
- Kitzeck-Sausal: Europe’s highest wine-growing area, producing complex, age-worthy wines.
- Gamlitz: Known for full-bodied Sauvignon Blanc and Morillon (Chardonnay).
Grape Varieties
Südsteiermark excels in white wine production. Sauvignon Blanc thrives here, producing world-class wines.
Other notable varieties include:
- Welschriesling
- Morillon (Chardonnay)
- Gelber Muskateller
- Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc)
Main Wine Styles
Südsteiermark wines are known for their freshness and minerality. The region’s cool climate produces vibrant, aromatic whites.
Key styles include:
- Crisp, herbaceous Sauvignon Blancs
- Fruity, light-bodied Welschrieslings
- Elegant, mineral-driven Morillons
- Aromatic, floral Gelber Muskatellers
Food Specialties
Südsteiermark’s cuisine pairs perfectly with its wines. Kürbiskernöl (pumpkin seed oil) is a local delicacy.
Must-try dishes:
- Backhendl (fried chicken)
- Kürbissuppe (pumpkin soup)
- Kernöl-Eierspeise (scrambled eggs with pumpkin seed oil)
- Steirisches Wurzelfleisch (pork with root vegetables)
Drives & Walks
The South Styrian Wine Road offers breathtaking views of vineyards and rolling hills. It’s perfect for driving or cycling.
Recommended routes:
- Gamlitz to Leutschach (20 km)
- Ehrenhausen to Spielfeld (15 km)
- Kitzeck circular walk (5 km)
Itineraries
A 3-day wine tour allows you to experience Südsteiermark’s best offerings.
Sample itinerary:
- Day 1: Explore Gamlitz, visit Sattlerhof winery
- Day 2: Drive the South Styrian Wine Road, stop at Tement winery
- Day 3: Hike in Kitzeck, enjoy a wine tasting at Wohlmuth
Getting There & Around
The nearest major airport is Graz Airport, about 45 minutes from Südsteiermark. Rent a car for easy exploration of the wine region.
Transportation options:
- Car rental: Available at Graz Airport
- Bus: Limited services between towns
- Taxi: Convenient but pricey
- Bicycle rental: Perfect for short trips
Best Time to Visit
Late spring to early fall offers the best weather for wine tasting and outdoor activities.
Key seasons:
- May-June: Mild weather, fewer crowds
- July-August: Peak season, lively atmosphere
- September-October: Harvest season, wine festivals
Sustainability Efforts
Südsteiermark emphasizes eco-friendly winemaking. Many wineries practice organic or biodynamic viticulture.
Sustainable initiatives:
- Solar-powered wineries
- Water conservation techniques
- Biodiversity promotion in vineyards
- Local, seasonal ingredients in restaurants
Language Tips
German is the primary language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Useful wine-related phrases:
- “Prost!” – Cheers!
- “Weingut” – Winery
- “Weinprobe” – Wine tasting
- “Trockener Wein” – Dry wine
Further Resources
For more information on Südsteiermark wines and tourism, visit these websites:
