Terroir

Limestone, quartz, gneiss and schist – the foundation of our wines.

Shell limestone from the ancient sea, the soil of the Rust vineyards

Soil

Beneath the vines lie limestone-rich, fossilized marine deposits, complemented by quartz, gneiss, mica schist, loam, sand, and gravel, depending on the location. Where vines grow today, there was once a sea. Limestone brings tension and precision, loam provides juiciness and body, and gravel ensures drainage and warmth. In some plots, quartz is visible on the surface—blue, white, and pink.

Healthy soil

Flora & Fauna

All around, a mosaic of habitats emerges: reed belts, wet meadows, pastures and dry zones. The sea of reeds is a refuge and nursery for countless species. Storks, herons and birds of prey circle above the plains, migratory birds stop to rest, and with a little luck you may spot a kingfisher, hoopoe or bee-eater. All of this is part of our origin.

Lake Neusiedl

Meadow flowers and grasses in the vineyard's cover crops

What does terroir mean?

Terroir describes all the site factors of a location: soil and rock, slope inclination, orientation, sun, water, and microclimate – and the way in which humans have cultivated the landscape over generations.

Why is the wind so important?

By the lake, there is almost always wind. It quickly dries leaves and grapes after rain, dew or fog. This makes life harder for fungal diseases, and the grapes stay healthy.

Why is nature part of the terroir?

Birds, insects, amphibians, and resilient flora are part of a vibrant ecosystem. Those who farm organically work with them – not against them.

Discover more

Burgenland & Lake Neusiedl

Expanse, light, wind, and lake.

Furmint

Our most important grape variety.

Rust

Small in area, big in character.