Industry in transition

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Creative leaders in the rapidly growing wine sector (from left): Oschep, Liegenfeld and Zechmeister.(Bild: Reinhard Judt)

Wine, the flagship of Burgenland, is an economic factor that is becoming increasingly important. As an important factor in the economy and in tourism, the industry is facing new challenges. A change in the law is being discussed. 

"Lifestyle habits are changing. Young target groups in particular need to be catered for more," industry experts point out. "Turbulent times require clear answers. Our winegrowers need better framework conditions. There are loud calls for a new wine law that takes account of the changed circumstances," states winegrowing president Andreas Liegenfeld.

No dictates on style
The three-stage pyramid of origin needs to be discussed intensively. "On this point, we want to finalize our model with region, closer origin and vineyard this year. In any case, dictating wine styles and classifications will not be tolerated," explains Liegenfeld.

Enjoyment as motivation
Apart from that, the symbiosis between wine and tourism is to be further strengthened. 23 percent of Burgenland guests cite culinary and vinophile enjoyment as the decisive motives for their vacation in the region.

A desire for Burgenland
"Especially in the spring and fall months, the number of visitors increased significantly thanks to the diverse wine tourism offerings," confirm Wein-Burgenland Chairman Herbert Oschep and Christian Zechmeister from the wine tourism department.

Winegrowing president Liegenfeld: "The offer is specifically advertised at joint presentations. The best example is the current tasting in Linz with almost 100 winegrowers, which whets the appetite for Burgenland."