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Within the framework of a collective amendment to the wine law, Austria has authorised four new white grape varieties for quality wine. This is announced by Österreich Wein Marketing (ÖWM). Blütenmuskateller, Goldmuskateller, Muscaris and Souvignier Gris thus increase the number of quality wine grape varieties in Austria to 40.
Blütenmuskateller, Muscaris and Souvignier Gris belong to the so-called fungus-resistant grape varieties (PIWIs). PIWI varieties are special new varieties with high resistances to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and downy mildew (oidium and peronospora). This brings a number of ecological advantages, such as a lower need for pesticides and fewer tractor passages, which in turn reduces pollutant emissions and reduces soil compaction in the vineyard. According to ÖWM, organic and sustainable winegrowers in particular are therefore showing increasing interest in PIWIs.
In addition to the two PIWI red wine varieties Rathay and Roesler, PIWI white wine varieties are now also permitted for the first time in Austria for the production of quality wine.