Schilcherland Wine Region

The wine area of Schilcherland, originally known as Weststeiermark or West Styria, is the tenth recognized wine region of Southern Austria. The region is recognized for its one-of-a-kind rose wine, Schilcher, which is characteristic of the region and has a centuries-long heritage. Schilcherland's two unique wines, Schilcherland Klassik DAC and Schilcherland DAC are produced under rigorous guidelines. The wines must bear a label identifying the vineyard, have an ABV of no more than 12%, and be dry with no more than 4 grams of sugar per liter. This modern wine region is distinguished by its rustic surroundings, which have a distinct legacy in the world of wines.

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Schilcherland!

Where is the Schilcherland wine region?

The Schilcherland wine region in southern Austria is one of the most important wine districts in Austria, along with Western Styria and the towns of Obergreith and Oberhaag. The region includes Styrian peripheral and non-alpine lands west of the Mur River. The region comprises almost 641 hectares of vineyards, with a focus on red varietals and indigenous varieties. Schilcherland was named after the Schilcher rose wine. The territory was known as Weststeiermark or West Styria until 2017. The region is located in southwest Styria and encompasses the federal state's inner alpine region sharing its southern border with Slovenia. 

History of the Schilcherland wine region

The Schilcherland region was discovered to be inhabited throughout the La Tène period and again between 7000 and 6000 BC. The Schilcherland region was ruled by the Celts in Noricum and then by the Romans. Schilcherland is the smallest wine region in Styria's historic country. The Romans deserve credit for bringing grapes and winemaking to the region. The centuries-old winemaking legacy gave birth to the distinctive rose wines known as Schilcher, which have become the region's trademark. Until the twentieth century, the region was an agricultural area, which has since declined.

The terroir and geography of the Schilcherland wine region

Vineyards are typically found on the eastern Alps' solid rocks, with acidic and crystalline soils. The Styrian Basin has some vines in loose rocks. Greenish crystalline formations and basins deposited by the Mur river combine into fine-grained sands and clay layers near the basin. The indigenous Blauer Wildbacher grapes, as well as various other grape varietals, thrive in this location which develops a unique character. Summer days are warm, whereas winter days are chilly. The area is well shielded from severe winds. The steep slopes that descend to the valley are terraced, making viticulture difficult. The terrain in the area is stunning, with influences from southern Europe and the Mediterranean, as well as heavy rains.

Popular grape varieties from the Schilcherland wine region

Blauer Wildbacher, an indigenous grape specific to Austria, accounts for more than 75% of the vines in the Schilcherland. Sauvignon Blanc, Muscat Blanc, Pinot Blanc, Welschriesling, Schuerebe, and Weißburgunder are among the other grape varieties that thrive in this region. The Schilcher wines are pale crimson in color and made entirely from Blauer Wildbacher. With robust acidity and freshness, the wines beautifully reflect the terroir. These wines are quite versatile and pair well with a wide variety of foods.

Food to pair with Schilcherland wine 

Florette

Florette is Rhone-style French goat cheese. The Guilloteau creamery makes this lovely French cheese with bloomy rindy features created from goat's milk. Florette is a hexagonal form that comes in a number of sizes. This sharp, acidic cheese pairs well with crusty bread, mushrooms, potatoes, and dried fruits. It pairs well with white wines from the Vulkanland Steiermark region.

Bocadillo de Salmon

Sandwiches are one of the world's most popular comfort foods. This Spanish sandwich is a twist on the traditional fish-based bocadillo, using fresh Spanish bread with salmon ingredients. Smoked salmon, olive oil, fresh cheese, salsa sauce, tomato slices, tartar sauce, and pickles are common fillings. The sandwich is frequently served with a tortilla or chips on the side. This easy-to-prepare dish pairs well with rose wines from the Vidigueira wine region.

Sashimi

Sashimi is a popular Japanese delicacy of thinly sliced raw fish, shrimp, or pork. Typically, the dish includes soy sauce, wasabi, and other flavors. The supper can be made in a variety of ways, depending on the chef and the occasion. The slices are cut in a variety of fashions, ranging from exceedingly thin to thick. Shiso leaves, seaweed, and salads are popular sashimi accompaniments. This dish pairs well with both red and white Vidigueira wines.

Places to visit in the Schilcherland wine region

Neuberg Abbey

Neuberg Abbey is a historic Cistercian monastery and one of the few monastic buildings in Austria that has retained much of its medieval character. This wonderful piece of treasure, built in gothic style, is located in the upper Murz valley overlooking the town. The monastery also includes a magnificent hall church known as the local Cathedral. This church, like every other Cistercian church, is devoted to Maria's coronation and ascension. Duke Otto der Frohliche erected the monastery under the Heiligenkreuz monastery in 1327. It contains the remains of Duke Otto and his family. Emperor Joseph II destroyed the monastery in 1786, ending its legacy after 469 years of service. A visit to this beautiful abbey is a must if you are around the Schilcherland. 

Church Pürgg

Church Pürgg is located on a tiny plateau above the valley on the south face of the Rantensteins. This Romanesque church was constructed in 1130, with only three naves remaining today. The church was extensively rebuilt at the beginning of the 14th century. On the northern aisle, which is elevated above the southern aisle, there is an altar dedicated to the Virgin Mary. In 1904 the church additionally included Count Lamberg's burial hall on the west facade. 

Frequently asked questions about Schilcherland