Central and Eastern European Wines

Overview

• Focus on Austria, Hungary, Switzerland, and Greece
• Importance of understanding winemaking history and regional influences

Austria

History

• 1920s: Austria was the third-largest wine producer globally
• 1980s scandal: Chemicals, including antifreeze, were added to wines, causing a decline in exports
• Reforms led to improved quality and a focus on boutique wines

Geography

• Located southeast of Germany, northeast of Italy
• Influenced by German winemaking
• Wine regions mainly in the eastern part of Austria

Varietals

• 36 grape varietals: 22 white and 14 red
• Two-thirds of production is white wine
• Notable grapes:
  • White: Gruner Veltliner, Riesling, Chardonnay (Morillon)
  • Red: Zweigelt, Blaufränkisch, St. Laurent

Terroir

• Cool continental climate
• Danube River influences terroir by warming vines
• Diverse soils, including unique loess soils

Wine Classification

• Basic table wine labeled "Austrian wine"
• Qualitätswein: PDO classification, accounts for 2/3 of production
• DAC: Highest quality, similar to AOC in France

Notable Regions

• Niederösterreich (Lower Austria): Largest region with notable sub-regions
• Burgenland: Known for botrytis wines like Ruster Ausbruch
• Steiermark: Notable for Welschriesling and Schilcher Rosé

Pairing

• Gruner Veltliner pairs well with pasta and ham dishes

Hungary

Impact of History

• Soviet rule emphasized quantity over quality, damaging the industry
• Recent recovery with an increase in tourism and interest in Hungarian wines

Wine Regions

• 22 wine-growing regions
• Notable region: Tokaj (oldest classified wine region, known for Tokaji Aszú dessert wines)

Tokaji Aszú

• Made from botrytis grapes mixed with a base wine
• Notable for sweet, acidic balance
• Suggested pairing with foie gras

Switzerland

Wine Industry

• Small production, most consumed domestically
• Minimal exports, mainly to Germany

Grape Varietals

• Indigenous: Chasselas
• Others: Pinot Noir, Gamay, Merlot

Wine Laws

• Not part of the EU
• Classifications:
  • Class 3: Table wine
  • Class 2: Generic origin
  • Class 1: AOC, highest quality

Pairing

• Swiss cheese fondue pairs well with Chasselas

Summary

• Eastern European wines have unique characteristics and histories
• Touring and tasting in these regions recommended for deeper understanding