The Wines of Austria

Austria, a landlocked country in central Europe, produces a wide range of high-quality wines, including whites, sweet wines, reds, rosés, amber wines, Sekts, and pétillants naturels. Most of the wine-growing takes place in the east of the country, in four broad regions: Niederösterreich, Burgenland, Steiermark, and Vienna. This second edition of The Wines of Austria by Stephen Brook provides a detailed account of the climate, terroir, and winemaking in each of the 16 major wine regions, with updated information on the producers and a chapter on the major varieties.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 324 pages
Publication date: 06 February 2024
Publisher: ACADEMIE DU VIN LIBRARY LIMITED

Austria, a landlocked country nestled at the heart of Europe, boasts an impressive array of high-quality wines. While the wine scandal of the mid-eighties posed a temporary setback, forcing many innocent producers to close their doors, it also presented a unique opportunity for dedicated winemakers to refine their craft and innovate. Over the past four decades, Stephen Brook has been captivated by Austria and its wines, witnessing its transformation from its darkest days to the vibrant and diverse wine producer it is today. In this second edition of "The Wines of Austria," Brook invites readers on a delightful vinous exploration of the finest offerings from this captivating country.

Today, Austria spans a mere fraction of the size of Bordeaux, yet it produces an extraordinary range of wines. Not only does it excel in crafting exquisite white and sweet wines, but it also excels in producing vibrant reds, rosés, amber wines, Sekts, and pétillants naturels. Almost all wine cultivation occurs in the eastern part of the country, spread across four broad regions. In the largest of these regions, Niederösterreich, the majority of vineyards are situated along the enchanting Danube valley, where world-class Grüner Veltliners are cultivated, rivaling even Burgundy in quality. Meanwhile, the southeastern part of the region specializes in producing exceptional reds derived from native Austrian grape varieties. The eastern region of Burgenland, characterized by its warm and humid climate, allows for the production of luscious botrytized sweet wines. Steiermark, known for its lush greenery and picturesque landscapes, yields invigorating and refreshing whites, as well as a distinctive rosé known as Schilcher. The capital city of Vienna boasts an impressive vineyard estate of over 600 hectares, with a significant portion of the wine produced being sold in the city's renowned Heurigen. Furthermore, Vienna holds the distinction of being the capital of Gemischter Satz, a unique blend of wines from different regions.

Brook delves into the intricate details of Austria's climate, terroir, and winemaking practices in each of the 16 major wine regions. The producers chosen for this edition have undergone thorough updates, ensuring that the most current information is presented. Numerous wines have been tasted up to the 2018 vintage, providing readers with a comprehensive and up-to-date perspective on the country's wine offerings. Additionally, a chapter dedicated to the major varieties and a comprehensive glossary of wine-related terms further enhance the reader's understanding and appreciation of Austria's diverse wine culture.

In conclusion, "The Wines of Austria" by Stephen Brook is a must-read for anyone with an interest in exploring the world of Austrian wines. With its captivating narrative, detailed insights, and comprehensive coverage of the country's wine regions, this second edition offers a truly immersive experience for wine enthusiasts. Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or a novice seeking to expand your knowledge, this book will undoubtedly captivate your senses and leave you longing for more. So, raise your glass and savor the exceptional flavors that Austria has to offer, as you embark on a vinous journey through this captivating landlocked country.

Weight: 516g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913141622
Edition number: Fully revised and updated