Weingut Heinrich and the philosophy of natural viticulture
In the heart of Burgenland, in Gols near Lake Neusiedl, lies the Heinrich winery – one of the most influential wineries in Austria. The winery is run by Gernot and Heike Heinrich, whose commitment to biodynamic viticulture and respect for nature form the foundation of their work. Since the 1990s, Weingut Heinrich has developed into one of the leading representatives of natural viticulture and is now one of the most important voices in European organic viticulture.
Gernot Heinrich began his career as a traditional winemaker, but soon developed into a visionary who rethought wine production. Together with Heike Heinrich, he gradually converted the business to biodynamic cultivation. Today, all the vineyards are certified organic and the work follows the rhythm of nature, not industrial planning. The solid, biodynamic basis of the Heinrich winery forms the foundation for the high quality and longevity of the wines. The wines are produced with minimal intervention, without excessive filtration or additives – an approach that preserves authenticity and character.
Terroir, locations and natural diversity
Thanks to its location between the Alps and the Pannonian Basin, Burgenland offers a unique climate. Lake Neusiedl acts as a temperature regulator and provides the vines with a harmonious balance of warmth and moisture. The vineyards of Weingut Heinrich cover numerous sites around Gols, including the well-known Gabarinza and Salzberg vineyards, which are famous for their structure and complexity.
The soil plays a central role: limestone, slate and loess give the grapes depth and tension. This diversity is reflected in the aromas of the wines – from powerful red wines to elegant white wines. The red wines from Weingut Heinrich are characterized by a distinct variety of styles, reflecting both terroir and innovative production methods such as the use of amphorae and cuvées. Rosé wines with a special terroir expression and innovative production processes, such as spontaneous fermentation and the use of different barrels, are also part of the range. The natural expression of the wines, which is achieved through spontaneous fermentation, is particularly impressive. This traditional method, in which wild yeasts take over the fermentation, allows nature itself to shape the character of each vintage.
The handwriting of Gernot and Heike Heinrich
Gernot Heinrich is considered one of the pioneers of Austrian red wine. The red wines in particular, such as Gernot Heinrich Rot, stand for the highest quality and an independent classification within the Austrian wine landscape. His passion for soil, climate and biodiversity characterizes every aspect of the winery. Heike Heinrich complements this vision with a keen sense of structure, style and sustainable management. Together they create products that not only set standards in Austria’s wine landscape, but also enjoy worldwide recognition.
Compared to many other wineries, Weingut Heinrich attaches particular importance to holism: every step – from harvesting to ageing and bottling – is carried out according to biodynamic principles. The grapes are harvested gently, often by hand, in order to preserve the quality. The wines develop their unmistakable depth and balance in the amphorae and wooden barrels.
The wines – an expression of nature and precision
The Heinrich winery’s range showcases the full diversity of Burgenland. The focus is on red wines from typical regional varieties such as Blaufränkisch, Zweigelt and St. Laurent, complemented by international vines such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris. The wines are complex, elegant and lively – characterized by nature, soil and time.
Zweigelt organic – structure and juiciness
The Zweigelt Bio from Weingut Heinrich is a prime example of Austria’s red wine art. The vines grow on chalky soils around Gols and produce a wine with rich fruit, fine tannins and spicy depth. The bouquet is reminiscent of cherry, plum and herbs, while the palate is carried by a lively structure and fresh acidity. Spontaneous fermentation creates an authentic expression of Burgenland, unadulterated and honest.
St. Laurent Bio – Elegance with personality
The St. Laurent Bio impresses with its fine aromas and clear style. It combines velvety richness with an unmistakable tension that is typical of the Heinrich winery. The nose reveals dark berries, fine herbs and subtle roasted aromas. It is soft on the palate, with an elegant texture and harmonious finish. Gernot and Heike Heinrich have created a wine that fascinates with its balance of strength and delicacy.
naked red Bio – unadulterated natural wine
The naked red Bio stands for the winery’s pure philosophy: wine as a natural product, unadulterated, spontaneously fermented and minimalistically vinified. This cuvée of Blaufränkisch, Zweigelt and St. Laurent combines freshness, spice and juicy fruit. Bottled without filtration or sulphurization, it preserves the pure essence of the grape. The result is a lively red wine with plenty of character – a true comparison to classically produced wines and an expression of uncompromising naturalness.
Pinot Noir from Weingut Heinrich – Burgundy meets Burgenland
The Pinot Noir is an example of Gernot Heinrich’s sensitive approach to international varieties. This vine thrives on limestone-rich sites to produce a wine full of finesse and depth. The nose reveals an elegant interplay of red berries, forest floor and fine spices. The palate reveals a cool minerality, supported by a silky structure. The long maturation in used barrels results in a red wine that does not need to shy away from comparison with great Burgundies – only with the soul of Burgenland.
Sustainability and vision
Today, Weingut Heinrich is much more than just a winery: it is a role model for biodynamic viticulture in Austria’s wine landscape. Gernot and Heike Heinrich show that quality and ecological responsibility are not opposites, but mutually dependent. Their products embody this philosophy – wines with origin, character and life.
The path that Weingut Heinrich has taken stands for a conscious approach to nature and culture. Whether in Gabarinza, Salzberg or in the other vineyards around Gols – the same striving for purity and expression can be found everywhere. Wine is not produced here as a mass product, but as an individual interpretation of the land and its possibilities.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Weingut Heinrich
Which are the best wineries in Burgenland?
Leading wineries include Heinrich, Moric and Weninger. They stand for sustainable viticulture and shape the image of Burgenland worldwide.
Which is the most famous wine in Austria?
Austria’s best-known wines include Blaufränkisch, Grüner Veltliner and Riesling. In Burgenland in particular, Blaufränkisch is a symbol of regional identity.
What is Blaufränkisch wine?
Blaufränkisch is an autochthonous grape variety of Burgenland. It produces strong, structured red wines with a spicy character that can mature for a long time and are internationally renowned.
Which wine is Burgenland known for?
Burgenland is known for its red wines – especially Blaufränkisch, Zweigelt and St. Laurent. These varieties authentically reflect the soils, climate and diversity of the region.