Vienna

Few wine destinations can rival the beauty of Austria. In 2016, the country was named Europe’s Best Wine Tourism Destination at the Travvy Awards—often regarded as the “Academy Awards” of the American travel industry. When one considers that Austria was competing against iconic wine regions such as Bordeaux and Tuscany, the significance of this recognition becomes immediately apparent.

It was therefore a singular privilege to be invited by the Austrian Wine Marketing Board (AWMB), the national service body representing Austria’s wine industry, to attend VieVinum 2016 in Vienna as their guest.

A Biennial Feature

Held every two years within the magnificent surroundings of the Vienna Hofburg Palace, VieVinum is Austria’s largest and most prestigious wine fair. Over three days at the end of May and beginning of June, the event brings together wine professionals, enthusiasts, producers, and international visitors to discover the latest releases from Austria’s leading wineries alongside select international exhibitors. Beyond the main exhibition itself, the fair is complemented by a variety of curated events, tastings, and educational experiences that together provide a comprehensive insight into Austrian wine culture.

The 2016 edition marked the tenth staging of VieVinum and attracted more than 15,000 visitors who sampled wines from approximately 620 exhibitors. As a special invitee, I had the opportunity to participate in several exclusive events that offered a privileged perspective on Austrian wine. Arriving two days before the fair commenced, I was welcomed to an intimate evening at a traditional Viennese Heurigen—a local wine tavern deeply woven into Austria’s wine heritage. Equally memorable was the opportunity to attend a grand tasting of Salon wines, regarded as the pinnacle of Austria’s national wine competition and representing some of the country’s finest expressions.

Tradition with modernity

While Vienna served as the backdrop for the fair, the experience revealed much more than a showcase of wines. It offered a glimpse into a wine culture that seamlessly blends centuries-old traditions with modern innovation. From the convivial atmosphere of the Heurigen to the meticulous quality standards evident in the Salon selection, Austrian wine demonstrated a remarkable commitment to authenticity, precision, and regional character.

My visit to Austria reinforced why the country enjoys such a distinguished reputation among wine lovers and travellers alike. Spectacular landscapes, a vibrant wine culture, world-class hospitality, and an unwavering dedication to quality combine to create a truly memorable wine destination. VieVinum provided the perfect gateway into this fascinating world, and I consider myself fortunate to have experienced Austrian wine at its source, in the heart of Vienna, during one of the country’s most important celebrations of viticulture and winemaking.