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The Austrian wine-growing region of Kamptal, currently severely affected by flooding, may now also sell the Pinot Noir varieties Chardonnay, Weißburgunder, and Grauburgunder as origin-protected DAC wines. Until now, only the varieties Grüner Veltliner and Riesling were approved for this purpose. These five grape varieties may be marketed under the origin Kamptal DAC and Kamptal DAC Reserve starting with the 2024 vintage. The designation of the Pinot Noir varieties may only appear on the main label (back label). Starting with the 2025 harvest, the grapes used for Kamptal DAC wines must either come from certified organic production or comply with the certification "Sustainable Austria." Exceptions apply only to small businesses that report less than 5,000 liters of wine or 6,000 kilograms of grapes in their harvest reports.
According to reports from winemakers, the current flooding situation in Kamptal is difficult, and the vineyards cannot be accessed due to the wet conditions. However, since most vineyards are located on slopes, there is cautious optimism that the harvest can soon be continued.
For all of Austria, the Piwi grape varieties Donauriesling and Donauveltliner are now approved as quality wines. For the time being, the restriction applies that they may only be bottled as varietal quality wines or origin wines without varietal designation on the label. This is seen as a viticultural political compromise with Piwi skeptics. However, the mostly small quantities are currently mainly used in cuvées or in mixed sets.
(al / Source: Vinaria)