Südsteiermark |
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The Südsteiermark, or South Styra, is a small wine region located in the south east of Austria, close the to Slowenian border. The Südsteiermark has fragrant, fresh wines made from Sauvignon Blanc grapes - which are characteristic of the area. However, the 1,950 hectares of vineyards here offer sufficient space to grow a wide variety of grapes, including Welschriesling, Morillon (the Austrian name for Chardonnay), Muskateller and Traminer. Although this is one of the most picturesque wine regions, wine-growing is indeed hard work in the Südsteiermark, due to its extremely steep vineyard slopes.
As varied as the grapes in the Südsteiermark are its soils: sandstone, shale, clay and shell limestone. And the warm, humid Mediterranean climate determines the vegetation cycle here: cool nights help bring out the aromas that generate a richness of nuances and noblesse in the white wines. The region has with the town of Kitzeck also the highest wine growing area in Austria. The wines of the region have not only an assured place on the tables of the many fine regional restaurants, but have gained international reputation.
Archduke Johann of Austria, a wine-growing pioneer with a European vision viticulturally - something that is evident throughout the entire region even today - would be proud of "his" wine-growers in the Südsteiermark.
The region with its rolling, hilly country side, also called the ‘Styrian Tuscany’, is extremely beautiful and has many attractions for visiting wine lovers. They include the restored castle of Gamlitz, archaeological excavations from Roman times in Flavia Solva, the historical, world heritage site of the old town of Graz and the Slovenian city of Maribor. Not to mention endless opportunities to taste good food and the local wines. |
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