Qualitätswein

Qualitätswein (quality wine) is a highly regulated Austrian wine category. According to Austrian wine legislation, the following criteria must be adhered to: the grapes must originate from a winegrowing region, the minimum must weight required is at least 15° KMW, the maximum yield is restricted to 9,000 kg of grapes or 6,750 litres of wine, the alcohol content must attain at least 9% by volume, the Qualitätswein must be sent for chemical analysis and pass a sensory tasting commission.

Austrian Qualitätsweine are easily recognisable by their red-white-red control slip banderoles on the capsule, as well as the Federal Inspection Number on the wine label. Within the quality wine structure, the category of Kabinett plays a special role, as additional requirements have to be fulfilled. The EU defines ‘Wines with Protected Geographical Indication’ and ‘Wines with Protected Designation of Origin’. Prime examples of these wines within this category are the Austrian DAC wines.