Domane Wachau’s grapes are grown in the Wachau region in Austria, on the steep stone terraces along the banks of the Danube, and grapes have been grown in the region for over 2000 years!
The whole region specialises in two varieties, Riesling and Grüner Veltliner.
Domäne Wachau is one of the largest wineries in Austria and only produces premium quality wines.
Here’s a great article on the Wachau if you want to learn more.
There is a classification system specific to the Wachau to help people understand the wines they’re drinking. There are 3 categories:
Steinfeder
The lightest wines of the region, which even be sparkling wines. Grapes harvested for Steinfeder wines must achieve at least 15–17°kmw, not be subjected to chaptalization during production and finish with an alcohol level no greater than 11.5%.
Federspiel
Made from riper grapes harvested at least 17°kmw and producing wines with an alcohol level between 11.5–12.5%.
Like the other classification, the wines can not be chaptalized. The maximum residual sugar for these wines is 4 g/l.
Smaragd
The ripest wines that must contain at least 12.5% APV. The maximum residual sugar level for these wines is 9 g/l.
All grapes destined for this designation must attain at least 18.5°kmw.
The wines have to be aged in bottle and not released untill at least the following May.
These are the best of the best in Wachau, and good vintages can age for well over 20 years.
