The Viennese Heurige

They are as famous as the Giant Ferris Wheel, Schönbrunn Palace, the Vienna Boys' Choir or the Lipizzaner.

The real Viennese “heurige” or wine taverns. Numerous songs have been dedicated to them; they have served as a backdrop for many films. Above all, however, the wine tavern offers the Viennese and their guests entertainment in the proverbial cozy atmosphere, fine wines produced in Vienna and the appropriate culinary accompaniment. A place in which to feel good, in which everyone is warmly welcome. A genuine Viennese Heuriger, or wine tavern, which only serves wine from its own vineyards, can be recognized by the pine bushes and a sign with the word “Ausg’steckt”, which also indicates when the tavern is open. Did you know: Viennese Heuriger culture, like the Viennese sausage stand and traditional Viennese coffee house culture, has been declared intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. The variety of Viennese Heuriger venues ranges from traditional wine taverns to taverns located in the vineyard itself.

However, the word “heurige” does not just describe the tavern itself, but also the wine from the current vintage, which – in accordance with tradition - may be so-called until 11 November (St Martin’s Day). In addition to the eminently drinkable, open draught wine, the Viennese Heuriger also offer their guests fine bouteille wines, which reflect the richness of varieties (white wine is mainly cultivated in Vienna) and the unique Viennese climate, as well as a corresponding glass and table culture. And sometimes, with a bit of luck, you might even get to hear some typical Heuriger music from the old days, including one of the city’s famous Wienerlieder.