Winery Overview & History
F.X. Pichler is one of Austria’s most prestigious estates, located in the heart of the Wachau Valley along the Danube River. Founded in 1898 and now managed by the fifth generation of the Pichler family, the winery is internationally celebrated for its crystal-clear expression of terroir and its focus on purity and precision.
Each wine is a reflection of meticulous vineyard care and minimal intervention, resulting in world-renowned Grüner Veltliner and Riesling that embody both elegance and power.
Vineyard Location & Terroir
The estate’s vineyards are situated around the village of Oberloiben, where steep, terraced slopes of weathered primary rock and loess face the Danube. The unique microclimate — warm days and cool nights — fosters slow ripening and concentration of aromas.
This combination of stone, slope, and river influence imparts exceptional minerality and depth, giving F.X. Pichler wines their unmistakable crystalline texture.
Grape Varieties & Wine Style
The vineyards are planted primarily with Grüner Veltliner and Riesling. Grüner Veltliner expresses ripe stone fruit, white pepper, and herbal spice, while Riesling delivers purity, tension, and age-worthy acidity.
The wines range from fresh and vibrant to rich and opulent, always maintaining impeccable balance and finesse.
Signature Wines
- Grüner Veltliner “M” Smaragd — Monumental and complex, representing the pinnacle of Wachau white wine.
- Riesling “Unendlich” — Meaning “infinite,” a limited cuvée that captures profound depth and purity.
- Grüner Veltliner “Kellerberg” — Elegant, mineral-driven, and beautifully structured.
Winemaking & Cellar Practices
Grapes are hand-harvested and gently pressed. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel or large neutral oak casks to preserve natural freshness. Extended lees aging enhances texture and complexity while maintaining clarity and energy.
F.X. Pichler’s philosophy is one of restraint — allowing the vineyard to speak through the wine with minimal manipulation.
Visitor & Contact Information
Address: F.X. Pichler, Oberloiben 57, 3601 Dürnstein, Austria
Phone: +43 2711 3711
Website: www.fxpichler.at
Email: office@fxpichler.at
Visiting: Visits and tastings available by appointment only.
*Photo courtesy of Donau Niederösterreich