The Thermenregion Wine Region of Austria

Austrian winemaking is steeped in history, but what is the history and current status of the Thermenregion, the youngest Austrian D.A.C. classification?

The Thermenregion is a notable wine-growing area in eastern Austria, located just south of Vienna. This region is characterized by its unique climate and diverse soil types, which contribute to the production of high-quality wines. 

The Thermenregion extends along the eastern edge of the Calcareous Alps up to the Vienna Basin. It benefits from relatively warm and dry conditions, which are ideal for viticulture. The Wienerwald hills to the west shield the vineyards from cold Alpine influences, while warm breezes from Hungary's Pannonian Plains further enhance the region's favorable climate. The soils in the region range from sandy loam to pebbly, stony types that provide good drainage and heat retention.

Viticulture in the Thermenregion dates back more than 2000 years, with Roman legionnaires introducing vines and viticultural techniques to the area. The name Thermenregion refers to the sulphurous hot springs at Baden, a legacy from the Roman era when thermal baths were built around the spa town of Aquae.

The Thermenregion D.A.C. is the latest addition to the Austrian D.A.C. system, entering in 2023. In the northern area of the D.A.C. around Gumpoldskirchen white wines dominate, especially the native varieties Zierfandler and Rotgipfler. In the south, red wines predominate, especially St. Laurent and Pinot Noir.

For Riedenwein (single vineyard wines), including the varietals Rotgipfler, Zierfandler, Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay for white wines, and Pinot Noir and St. Laurent for red wines, they require a minimum alcohol content of 12.5% ​​vol and must be dry with a maximum 4 grams/liter residual sugar. For Ortswein (from specific communities), Pinot Gris and Zweigelt can also be present among the other varietals as be either dry or sweet. For regional wine (from the entire region), Neuberger and Blauer Portugieser can also be included, and only need to achieve a minimum alcohol content of 12%. Rosé and Blanc de Noirs are not permitted in any category, however cuvées are permitted in all categories.

Wines from the Thermenregion are highly regarded as excellent companions to food, with white wines known for pronounced acidity and medium body. They pair well with dishes like asparagus and hearty Austrian classics such as Wiener Schnitzel. Red wines from the Thermenregion, particularly Pinot Noir and Sankt Laurent, tend to complement tender beef and dark-meat poultry dishes like roasted goose, called "Martinsgans" in german.