Vinea Wachau
Vinea Wachau Nobilis Districtus was founded in 1983 and is a renowned association of winemakers in Wachau, Austria. Its aim is to preserve and promote the quality and authenticity of the wines of the region.
Members commit themselves to the Wachau Codex, which prescribes the production of wine using traditional methods. The Codex divides wines into three categories: Steinfeder, Federspiel and Smaragd.
Through these measures, Vinea Wachau is ensuring Wachau's reputation as an excellent white wine region.
Steinfeder
Wines have an alcohol content of up to 11.5 percent by volume. These wines are light, fresh, and spritzy, with a rather low alcohol concentration.
The name "Steinfeder" is derived from a native grass, the Steinfeder (Stipa pennata), which grows in the Wachau vineyards and symbolizes lightness and freshness.
Federspiel
With an alcohol content between 11.5 and 12.5 percent by volume, these wines present themselves as medium-bodied, elegant, and balanced. They are somewhat more substantial than Steinfeder wines and enchant with their finesse.
"Federspiel" is a term from falconry and describes the artful return of the bird of prey to the falconer's arm, aptly symbolizing the elegance and balance of these wines.
Smaragd
These wines are the crown jewels of the Wachau wine landscape, with an alcohol content of at least 12.5 percent by volume. They are full-bodied, complex, and possess impressive aging potential.
The name "Smaragd" refers to the emerald lizard, which is native to the steep, sunny vineyards of the Wachau and embodies the strength and brilliance of these noble wines.
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