Wien & Wein: Top Hidden Wine Destinations Near Vienna
As the Oktoberfest frenzy approaches, there’s a good argument to skip the beer and give Austrian wine a chance instead. If you’re in Vienna, the pairing of “Wien & Wein” (Vienna & wine) isn’t just a coincidence. Vienna boasts a rich wine culture that dates back centuries and can be experienced in the local wine taverns, called Buschenschanks or Heurigers.
The difference between the two lies mainly in the dish selection. In Buschenschanks, you are limited to cold dishes, while Heurigers allow you to enjoy warm cuisine as well. Both Buschenschanks and Heurigers serve fresh wine from the most recent harvest as well as older wines. For Vienna's residents, this wine-loving culture peaks every year during the Vienna Wine Hiking Day (held on September 28 and 29 this year). The event gathers locals and tourists to walk along four wine trails around Vienna, sampling various wines in approximately 50 taverns.
However, the crowds can be overwhelming. If you want to experience Austrian wine culture in a more pastoral setting, we’ve put together a list of five lesser-known destinations outside Vienna where you can enjoy a glass or two.
1. Wine hiking in Sooß
Just a 30-minute drive from Vienna, the village of Sooß is the perfect destination to experience Weinwanderung (wine hiking) before the rest of the wine lovers arrive. Each August, Sooß hosts its own wine festival, where visitors can enjoy unlimited wine tastings with the purchase of a ticket and wine glass. Walk from one winery to another, sampling everything from Salonwein to award-winning local wines accompanied by seasonal local food. With over 20 local wine producers, there’s plenty to explore.
Thanks to its diverse soil types and a unique microclimate influenced by the Pannonian basin, Sooß produces some of Austria’s most remarkable wines. The region’s dry, hot summers and golden early autumns ensure perfect grape ripening.
2. Carnuntum
Wine and history blend perfectly in Carnuntum, located about an hour drive from Vienna. This Roman city was once a significant metropolis in the Roman Empire, thriving from the 1st to the 4th centuries AD. Along with its impressive amphitheatres, reconstructed Roman buildings, and fascinating museum, Carnuntum also offers over 900 hectares of vineyards tended by 190 local wine producers.
The best time to visit is September and October when the weather is mild, and a glass of local wine can warm your soul. Stroll through the historical sites with a glass in hand and savour the rich flavours of Carnuntum’s wines, including classic Austrian varieties like Grüner Veltliner and Zweigelt.
3. Musical Wine Terraces in Wachau
Just over an hour’s drive from Vienna lies the picturesque Wachau Valley, one of Austria’s most famous wine regions. It’s known for its scenic vineyards, historical sites, and charming villages. For several years, Wachau has also been home to a unique event: the Musikalische Weinterrassen (Music Wine Terraces).
Taking place on six Sundays in September and October, this festival combines music, wine, and nature in an immersive experience. As you wander through the scenic wine terraces, you’ll enjoy traditional folk music from local bands and taste a wide selection of regional wines paired with light snacks. The event is hosted in stunning locations, such as the historic Hinterhaus ruin and the Rote Tor, offering breathtaking views along with a memorable wine-tasting experience.
4. Genuss Festival in Rust
On the shores of Lake Neusiedlersee lies the beautiful town of Rust, which hosts the Gans Burgenland Genuss Festival (October 4 to 6, 2024). This charming event brings together local producers, artisans, musicians, and winemakers to celebrate autumn in all its glory.
Visitors can enjoy the best of Burgenland’s wines while exploring the picturesque streets of Rust’s old town. The combination of delicious food, beautiful architecture, and excellent wine makes this a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience Austria’s wine culture.
5. Blaufränkischland Marathon in Deutschkreutz
For those who like to balance wine tasting with a bit of exercise, the Blaufränkischland Marathon in Deutschkreutz (October 5, 2024), offers the perfect opportunity. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a casual jogger, you can choose from a variety of race distances, ranging from a full marathon to a 5.4km route.
Along the way, you’ll find wine and snack stations offering local delicacies, as well as the chance to sample fine wines. But be careful—too much wine at the tasting stations could have you finishing your race much sooner than planned!
Autumn in Austria is the perfect time to experience the country’s unique wine culture. Whether you’re in Vienna for the annual Wine Hiking Day or exploring nearby wine regions like Sooß, Carnuntum, or Wachau, you’ll be treated to incredible wines, beautiful scenery, and rich traditions. Just remember, if you plan to indulge, drink your wine g’spritzt to ensure you make it back to Vienna safe!
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