Austria Flashcards

(97 cards)

1
Q

Weinland, Steierland and Bergland are geographic designations for what level of Austrian wine classification?
Österreichischer Wein
Landwein
Qualitätswein
Prädikatswein

A

Landwein

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2
Q

Riesling and Welschriesling are varieties that are genetically related to each other.
True
False

A

False

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3
Q

Which of the following grapes is most likely to undergo carbonic maceration?
Merlot
Blaufränkisch
Blauburgunder
Zweigelt

A

Zweigelt

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4
Q

Which country to the east of Austria is linked with it by history, climate, and common grape varieties?

Czech Republic

Germany

Italy

Hungary

Switzerland

A

Hungary

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5
Q

Austrian Sekt is most often made in the traditional method.

True

False

A

True

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6
Q

Austrian Trockenbeerenauslese wines are made into dry styles.

True

False

A

False

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7
Q

The majority of wine in Austria is produced under the DAC designation.
True
False

A

False

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8
Q

What is Zweigelt a cross of?

A) Riesling and Veltliner
B) St. Laurent and Blaufränkisch
C) Merlot and Syrah
D) Chardonnay and Pinot Noir

A

B) St. Laurent and Blaufränkisch

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9
Q

Which region is most noted for producing high-quality Blaufränkisch?

A) Wachau
B) Kamptal
C) Burgenland
D) Weinviertel

A

C) Burgenland

Blaufränkisch is Austria’s leading red grape, producing medium- to full-bodied, high-acid, spicy wines with dark fruit and firm tannins — the backbone of Burgenland reds, often compared to Syrah for its structure and minerality. Notable Producers
Moric (Roland Velich) – benchmark for refined, Burgundian-style Blaufränkisch.

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10
Q

Blaufränkisch is known for its:

A) Light body and low tannins
B) High tannins and lively acidity
C) Sweet flavor profile with low acidity
D) Neutral flavor profile suitable for sparkling wines

A

B) High tannins and lively acidity

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11
Q

Which statement best describes the typical flavor profile of Zweigelt?

A) Predominantly tropical fruit with high acidity
B) Sour cherry and blackberry with a smooth texture
C) Strong pyrazine characteristics with green bell pepper notes
D) High tannins with dominant oak and vanilla flavors

A

B) Sour cherry and blackberry with a smooth texture

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12
Q

Discuss the aging potential and suitable aging conditions for Blaufränkisch. How do these conditions affect the wine’s development?

A

Blaufränkisch typically has good aging potential due to its high tannins and acidity, which act as natural preservatives. In optimal conditions—cool, dark, and humid environments—the tannins soften, and the wine develops complex flavors over time, including earthy, herbal notes and secondary fruit characteristics. Proper aging allows Blaufränkisch to achieve a balance between its structural components and flavor profile, enhancing its overall complexity and depth.

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13
Q

Describe the ideal food pairings for Zweigelt and explain why these pairings complement the wine’s flavor profile.

A

Zweigelt pairs well with dishes like grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and medium cheeses, such as Gouda or Swiss. The wine’s natural acidity and fruit-forward profile (notably sour cherry and blackberry) provide a counterbalance to the richness of the meat, while the smooth tannins complement the textures of roasted vegetables. The moderate intensity of Zweigelt ensures it does not overpower the flavors of the food, making it versatile across various culinary styles.

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14
Q

Which of the following DACs is not a sub-region of Niederösterreich?

A) Kamptal DAC
B) Kremstal DAC
C) Mittelburgenland DAC
D) Wachau DAC

A

C) Mittelburgenland DAC - It’s actually part of Burgenland, not Niederösterreich.

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15
Q

What does the banderole on an Austrian wine bottle indicate?

A) The wine is organic
B) The wine is a Qualitätswein or higher
C) The wine contains added sulfites
D) The wine is imported

A

B) The wine is a Qualitätswein or higher

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16
Q

Which classification system is unique to the Wachau region based on ripeness and natural alcohol potential?

A) Vinea Wachau
B) Wachau DAC
C) Codex Wachau
D) Both A and C are correct

A

D) Both A and C are correct - Vinea Wachau and Codex Wachau

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17
Q

Which of the following producers is not based in Wachau Niederösterreich?

A) Emmerich Knoll
B) FX Pichler
C) Prager
D) Bründlmayer

A

D) Bründlmayer - It is located in Kamptal, part of Niederösterreich.

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18
Q

Grüner Veltliner is best paired with which of the following foods?

A) Rich, creamy sauces
B) Grilled red meats
C) Fresh seafood and vegetables
D) Sweet desserts

A

C) Fresh seafood and vegetables

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19
Q

Describe the typical flavor profile of Grüner Veltliner and explain why it pairs well with hard-to-pair foods such as asparagus and artichokes.

A

Grüner Veltliner typically exhibits a crisp, dry profile with flavors of green apple, white pepper, and sometimes hints of citrus and stone fruits. Its high acidity and clean finish make it versatile, cutting through the flavors of tricky vegetables like asparagus and artichokes, which can clash with other wines due to their strong green flavors and potential bitterness.

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20
Q

Explain the significance of the Kamptal and Kremstal regions in the production of dry white wines from Grüner Veltliner and Riesling. What characteristics do these regions impart to the wines?

A

Kamptal and Kremstal are key regions along the tributaries of the Danube River, where the microclimates and soils (often loess and schist) contribute to the distinct minerality and freshness of the wines. These conditions, combined with the cool nights, help preserve the grapes’ natural acidity, enhancing the crispness and flavor complexity of both Grüner Veltliner and Riesling. This makes wines from these areas particularly suitable for aging and complex enough to be paired with a range of cuisines.

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21
Q

Which two wine producing countries border Austria to the south?

Switzerland

Germany

Slovenia

Italy

Slovakia

A

Slovenia
Italy

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22
Q

Which river runs through Wachau?

A

Danube,

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23
Q

What is the most widely planted white grape in Austria?

Grüner Veltliner

Riesling

Welschriesling

Sauvignon Blanc

Weissburgunder

A

Grüner Veltliner

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24
Q

Which country to the east of Austria is linked with it by history, climate, and common grape varieties?

Czech Republic

Germany

Italy

Hungary

Switzerland

A

Hungary

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25
What designation may appear on an unoaked Riesling of 12% alcohol from the Wachau? Steinfeder Federspiel Smaragd
Federspiel
26
What event led to the fundamental reorganization of the Austrian wine industry in the 1980s? Fall of Communism in Hungary Antifreeze scandal Economic downturn in Austria Increased investment from European Union Climate change
Antifreeze scandal
27
Which grape variety does Eisenberg DAC specialize in? Riesling Sauvignon Blanc Grüner Veltliner Zweigelt Blaufränkisch
Blaufränkisch
28
Order the following regions from coolest to warmest (1 = coolest, 3 = warmest). Kamptal Weinviertel Mittelburgenland
Weinviertel Kamptal Mittelburgenland
29
What scale is used to measure must weight In Austria? Brix Öchsle Scale Plato Scale Klosterneuburger Mostwaage Scale Baumé
Klosterneuburger Mostwaage Scale
30
Which of the following international red grapes would you be least likely to encounter in Austria? Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot Pinot Noir Grenache
Grenache
31
Austrian Trockenbeerenauslese wines are made into dry styles. True False
False
32
Blauburgunder is a synonym for which grape? Cabernet Sauvignon Pinot Noir Gamay Merlot Cabernet Franc
Pinot Noir
33
Which two wine producing countries border Austria to the south? Switzerland Germany Slovenia Italy Slovakia
Slovenia Italy
34
High quality Sauvignon Blanc is most often associated with which region? Steiermark Burgenland Wien Niederösterreich
Niederösterreich
35
The DAC level of classification is on par with which level of classification in France? Vin de Table IGP AOP
AOP
36
Producers working with Grüner Veltliner and Riesling for 90% of their wines are most likely to be found in which wine-growing region? Eisenberg Thermenregion Kamptal Südsteiermark
Kamptal
37
Which of the following wine regions is also known as "Lower Austria"? Niederösterreich Wien Burgenland Steiermark
Niederösterreich
38
What is a ried?
A "top site" for grape growing, used to indicate single vineyards.
39
Which is not located in Neiderosterreich? Traisental Carnuntum Eisenberg Wachau
Eisenberg
40
What are the three classifications for Gruner Veltliner in the Wachau?
Steinfeder (max 11% abv), Federspiel (11.5-12.5% abv), Smaragd (min. 12.5% abv)
41
What are the major varieties of the Niederosterreich? Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling Gruner Veltlliner and Blaufrankish Riesling and Gruner Veltliner Zweigelt and Gruner Veltliner
Riesling and Gruner Veltliner
42
What styles of wine are allowed in Rosalia DAC?
Still red and rose wines from Blaufrankish and/or Zweigelt
43
What is Gemischer Satz?
A field blend from varietals such as Gruner Veltliner, Riesling, and Weissburgunder from Vienna.
44
What scale is used in Austria to measure the sugar content (must weight) of grape juice, and how does it compare to the German Öchsle scale?
The must weight scale used in Austria is the Klosterneuburg Must Weight Scale (KMW), where 1° KMW equals approximately 5° Öchsle.
45
What is the most basic category of Austrian wine, and what are its labeling rules?
Wein — the most basic level of Austrian wine. It can list a vintage and a grape variety, but not a specific region.
46
What is the category above Wein in Austria, and how is it defined?
Landwein — a regional wine that must come from one of three broad areas: Weinland, Steierland, or Bergland. It can be made from 40 permitted grape varieties and must have a minimum of 14° KMW.
47
What is the first level of Austrian quality wine, and what requirements must it meet?
Qualitätswein — must come from a single Weinbaugebiete (certified wine region), pass a chemical analysis and tasting panel, and receive a state control number (Prüfnummer). Bottles display a red-and-white banderol (seal) on the capsule.
48
What are the Austrian Qualitätswein level and how much sugar is at each?
Kabinett: >17°KMW, alcohol <12.7%. Prädikatswein : covers the range from Spätlese to Eiswein. Spätlese: >19°KMW Auslese: >21°KMW Beerenauslese: >25°KMW Ausbruch: >27°KMW, botrytized grapes, grape juice or late harvest wine may be added to assist the pressing operation. Trockenbeerenauslese: >30°KMW, completely botrytized grapes Eiswein: >25°KMW, further concentrated by being harvested and pressed when frozen. Strohwein or Schilfwein: >25°KMW, from grapes dried on straw mats.
49
Ried:
“Top site” used to indicate the village of production for single vineyards.
50
Vinea Wachau:
Grower organization that set standards in the region and a list of tenets for natural winemaking called the Codex Wachau.
51
Erste Lage:
Single vineyard wines. Need to follow DAC rules and regulations.
52
When did Austrian Sekt become its own Qualitätswein category?
In 2015, Austrian Sekt was recognized as a Qualitätswein category with specific quality tiers and regulations.
53
What are the main tiers of Austrian Sekt under the 2015 classification?
Klassik, Reserve, and Grosse Reserve — plus the optional Hauersekt (grower Sekt) designation.
54
What are the production and aging requirements for Klassik Sekt?
Can be made by Charmat or traditional method, at any sweetness level, and must be aged at least 9 months on the lees.
55
What defines Reserve Sekt?
Must be made by the traditional method only; may be Brut, Extra Brut, or Brut Nature; and must spend a minimum of 18 months on the lees.
56
What defines Grosse Reserve Sekt?
Must be traditional method only; permitted sweetness levels are Brut, Extra Brut, or Brut Nature; and must age at least 30 months on the lees.
57
What is Hauersekt?
A “grower Sekt” where the grape grower performs the tirage, disgorgement, and expedition. The label must list the village, vineyard (if applicable), vintage, and grape variety.
58
What is the difference between Mosel Riesling and Niederösterreich Austria?
Rieslings are extremely popular and are made in a big, rich, dry style. This is the antithesis of Riesling from the Mosel, and the wines can age for decades.
59
Wachau DAC:
wines can be from 17 different varieties, but single-vineyard wines must be from Grüner Veltliner or Riesling. The Wachau has its own ripeness classification for Grüner Veltliner (all wines made in a dry style): Steinfeder: named after a local grass, maximum 11.5% alcohol Federspiel: named after a falconry device, 11.5% to 12.5% alcohol, minimum must weight of 17° KMW, roughly equivalent to Kabinett. Smaragd: named after an 'emerald' lizard that lives in the vineyards, minimum 12.5% alcohol, maximum 9 g/litre residual sugar
60
Kremstal DAC:
Varieties: Grüner Veltliner: "fresh, fruit-accented, fine spiciness; no Botrytis note; no wood-tone." Riesling: "fragrant, stone fruit aromas, elegant, minerally; no Botrytis note; no wood tone." Can have an indication of village, vineyard, and can be Reserve. Wines must be dry
61
Kamptal DAC:
Varieties: Grüner Veltliner: "fresh, fruit-accented, fine spiciness; no Botrytis note; no wood-tone." Riesling: "fragrant, stone fruit aromas, elegant, minerally; no dominant Botrytis note; no wood-tone." Can have an indication of village, vineyard, and can be Reserve. Wines must be dry.
62
Traisental DAC:
Varieties: Grüner Veltliner: "fresh, fruity, spicy; no Botrytis note; no wood-tone.” Riesling: "robust, good body, aromatic, minerally; no Botrytis note; no wood-tone." Can have an indication of village, vineyard, and can be Reserve. Wines must be dry
63
Carnuntum DAC:
Varieties: Grüner Veltliner, Weissburgunder, Chardonnay, Zweigelt, Blaufränkisch. Can be a single variety or blended, wines must be legally dry
64
Weinvertel DAC:
Varieties: Grüner Veltliner: " fruity, spicy, peppery; no Botrytis note; no wood-tone." Reserve GV: "subtle botrytis and wood notes are acceptable." No laws on single vineyards, wines have to be dry in style.
65
Important non DAC in Austria
Wagram: NOT a DAC Varieties: Grüner Veltliner, Zweigelt, Müller-Thurgau. Thermenregion: NOT a DAC Varieties: Zweigelt, Blauer Portugieser, Neuburger, Grüner Veltliner.
66
What are some top producers to know from Austria?
Emmerich Knoll, Rudi Pichler, and Prager are Wachau icons known for powerful, dry Grüner and Riesling; Schloss Gobelsburg and Bründlmayer lead Kamptal with refined, age-worthy expressions balancing tradition and purity.
67
The majority of wine in Austria is produced under the DAC designation. True False
False
68
Which geographical feature separates Austria and Germany? The Alps The Danube River The Pannonian Plain The Rhein River Lake Neusiedlersee
The Alps
69
Weissburgunder is a synonym for which grape? Chardonnay Pinot Noir Pinot Gris Pinot Blanc Pinot Meunier
Pinot Blanc
70
High quality Sauvignon Blanc is most often associated with which region? Steiermark Burgenland Wien Niederösterreich
Steiermark
71
Eisenberg, Neusiedlersee, and Leithaberg are regions found in which Weinbaugebiet? Niederösterreich Burgenland Steiermark Bergland
Burgenland (Your Answer)
72
Which two wine producing countries border Austria to the south? Switzerland Germany Slovenia Italy Slovakia
Italy Slovenia
73
Match the sub-region to its larger Weinbaugebiet. Südsteiermark Neusiedlersee Kremstal Burgenland , Lower Austria, Styria
Südsteiermark: Styria Neusiedlersee: Burgenland Kremstal: Lower Austria, Austria’s Weinbaugebiete are the broadest wine regions — Styria, Burgenland, and Lower Austria (Niederösterreich )— each containing DAC subregions like Südsteiermark, Neusiedlersee, and Kremstal respectively. Neusiedlersee, is a DAC Niederösterreich is Weinbaugebiete
74
Austrian "Reserve" wines may utilize new oak, while "Klassik" wines may not. True False
True
75
Austrian Sekt is most often made in the traditional method. True False
True
76
Which of the following wine regions is also known as "Lower Austria"? Niederösterreich Wien Burgenland Steiermark
Niederösterreich
77
Which country to the east of Austria is linked with it by history, climate, and common grape varieties? Czech Republic Germany Italy Hungary Switzerland
Hungary
78
The majority of wine in Austria is produced under the DAC designation. True False
False
79
Name the Wachau classification from least to most ripe
Steinfender, Federspiel, Smaragd Steinfeder: named after a local grass, maximum 11.5% alcohol Federspiel: named after a falconry device, 11.5% to 12.5% alcohol, minimum must weight of 17° KMW, roughly equivalent to Kabinett. Smaragd: named after an 'emerald' lizard that lives in the vineyards, minimum 12.5% alcohol, maximum 9 g/litre residual sugar.
80
Describe the river impact of the three main DAC in Niederosterreich
Kremstal DAC: Along the krems river (tributary to the Danube). Dry whites from Gruner Veltliner and Riesling. no Botrytis note; no wood tone." Can have an indication of village, vineyard, and can be Reserve. Wines must be dry. Kamptal DAC: Along the Kampt River (tributary to the Danube). Dry whites from Gruner Veltliner and Riesling. no dominant Botrytis note; no wood-tone." Can have an indication of village, vineyard, and can be Reserve. Wines must be dry. Wachau DAC: Located along the Danube. Dry whites from Gruner Veltliner and Riesling.The Wachau has its own ripeness classification for Grüner Veltliner (all wines made in a dry style): Steinfeder Federspiel Smaragd
81
What is the name of the Austrain capsule indicating the wine Qualitatswein level or higher
Banderole
82
Name the holy trinity producers from Wachau DAC
Emmerich Knoll (Wachau) powerful Riesling and Grüner Veltliner with strong terroir character. Notes: Classic representation of Wachau Smaragd style — ripe yet precise. Rudi Pichler (Wachau) Precise, mineral-driven, dry wines with exceptional balance. Prager (Wachau) Linear, high-acid, tightly wound Rieslings that age beautifully. Very dry, crystalline,steely side of Wachau. Notes: Prager, F.X. Pichler and Knoll as part of Wachau’s “holy trinity” of producers.
83
Name two producers from Kamptal DAC
Schloss Gobelsburg (Kamptal) Known for: Historic monastery estate (founded in 12th century). Wines: Grüner Veltliner and Riesling minimal intervention and authentic regional expression. combines tradition with modern precision. Bründlmayer (Kamptal) Known for: Benchmark Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, and sparkling wine (Bründlmayer Brut). Style: Polished and balanced; textural richness with fresh acidity and finesse. Notes: One of Austria’s most consistent and internationally acclaimed estates; sustainable, precise, and versatile across styles.
84
What is Burgenland known for?
Burgenland is the heart of both red wine and sweet wine production in Austria.
85
Whats the biggest lake in Burgenland and how does it impact wine production there?
Its biggest body of water is Lake Neusiedl, Europes largest steppe lake, whose shallowness creates the perfect climate for botrytis.
86
Name the late harvest wines from Burgenland
. In the town of Illmitz, the Alois Kracher is estate if famous for its Eiswein, Bernauslese, and Trockenbernauslese wines -To the west, is the town of Rust, which is famous for Ausbruch, a dessert wine made in a similar style to Tokaji. The rest of the region grows a variety of local red grapes and international grapes, produced in a more “modern” style for international markets.
87
Mittelburgenland DAC:
Varieties: Blaufränkisch Can be a single vineyard and Reserve, and if so, must be aged in oak. Often aged in large oak casks or neutral barriques to preserve fruit purity. “Blaufränkisch is Austria’s signature red grape — producing medium- to full-bodied, spicy wines with firm tannins and high acidity, primarily from Burgenland and especially Mittelburgenland, often compared to Syrah or Cabernet Franc for its structure and lift. In Germany its called: Württemberg (as Lemberger).
88
Provide a producer of. Blaufränkisch and food pairing
Porducer: Moric (Roland Velich) Excellent with grilled meats, duck, game, or Austrian dishes like Tafelspitz and Wiener Schnitzel. The grape’s acidity balances fatty foods; spice complements earthy flavors.
89
What food is hard to pair that Gruner Veltliner works well with?
Hard to pair food like asparagus and artichokes. The unoaked, crisp, dry white wine, pairs well with seafood, smoked fish, fresh vegetables, cheeses and schnitzel.
90
What are the top varieties in Styria:
Welchriesling is the most planted grape and Sauvignon Blanc, as well as other high acid whites do well here Welschriesling is an unrelated variety to true Riesling, producing crisp, high-acid whites in Austria and Hungary. In Styria → light, crisp, aromatic dry whites. In Burgenland → botrytized sweet wines with honeyed richness and acidity.
91
Explain the three tiers of Austrian sekt?
Klassik: Charmat and traditional methods only, any sweetness level, aged a min. 9 months on lees. Reserve: Traditional method only, in Brut, Extra Brut, and Brut Nature styles only, aged a min. 18 months on lees. Grosse Reserve: Traditional method only, in Brut, Extra Brut, and Brut Nature styles only, aged a min. 30 months on lees. Hauersekt: Grower/producer sparkling, must list village, vineyard, vintage and variety.
92
What is a ried?
A "top site" for grape growing, used to indicate single vineyards.
93
Which is not located in Neiderosterreich? * Traisental Carnuntum Eisenberg Wachau
Eisenberg
94
What are the three classifications for Gruner Veltliner in the Wachau?
Steinfeder (max 11% abv), Federspiel (11.5-12.5% abv), Smaragd (min. 12.5% abv)
95
What are the major varieties of the Niederosterreich? * Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling Gruner Veltlliner and Blaufrankish Riesling and Gruner Veltliner Zweigelt and Gruner Veltliner
Riesling and Gruner Veltliner
96
What styles of wine are allowed in Rosalia DAC?
Still red and rose wines from Blaufrankish and/or Zweigelt
97
What is Gemischer Satz?
A field blend from varietals such as Gruner Veltliner, Riesling, and Weissburgunder from Vienna.