Why it matters
The producer
Domäne Wachau is led by Roman Horvath MW and Heinz Frischengruber. Its organically cultivated vineyards cover more than 160 hectares and are divided into small parcels worked mainly by hand. Each vigneron cultivates under two hectares on average.
The cooperative works with 250 growers farming 450 hectares and produces around three million bottles annually. The more than 160 hectares concern the estate's organically cultivated vineyards. The 450 hectares concern the growers working with the cooperative and its annual production. Domäne Wachau was formerly called Freie Weingärtner Wachau and adopted its present name in 2008. Falstaff named it Winemaker of the Year 2024.
Place and vineyards
Where the wines begin
Dry stone walled terraces are an essential feature of Wachau terroir. The winery is based at Dürnstein 107 in Dürnstein, and Domäne Wachau works parcels in Loibenberg, Achleiten, Singerriedel and Kellerberg. These names appear on wines tied to individual Wachau vineyards.
Wines to know
The range in view
Domäne Wachau's range covers an entry level Riesling, a named site Riesling, and two Grüner Veltliner Federspiel wines. Domäne Wachau Riesling Selection 2024 is the entry level Riesling, with pear, apple, melon and white flowered peach, supported by herbs, currant leaf and stony citrus freshness. Its finish is clean and tightening.
Domäne Wachau Riesling Smaragd Ried Achleiten 2023 is a varietal Riesling from Wachau at 13.5% alcohol and 3.9 g/l residual sugar. It brings white tropical fruit, mandarin zest, stone fruit and blossom honey, with a firm saline finish and ageing potential. The range also includes Domäne Wachau Grüner Veltliner Federspiel Terrassen 2024 and Domäne Wachau Grüner Veltliner Terrassen Federspiel 2025. Single vineyard wines are generally matured in large casks to avoid overt oak influence.