The Neusiedlersee-Hügelland lies west of the Neusiedler See (Lake Neusiedl) within the larger Burgenland region of Austria. It is one of the most versatile wine producing areas of the country in terms of the styles of wines produced. This can be attributed to the variety of terroirs that is found throughout its grape-growing landscape.
In wine-growing context, Neusiedlersee-Hügelland can be divided into three very distinctive zones. The most northern of these is the Leithagebirge where most vineyards are planted on the south-facing slopes of what is considered to be the last foothills of the Alps. The highly calcareous (rich in lime) soil here with a healthy dose of mica schist produces rich and characterful white wines with a distinct minerality. Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc), Grüner Veltliner and Riesling are the prominent grape varieties here. Furmint and Sauvignon Blanc also produce quality wines in these conditions.
The area close to the Neusiedler See around the town of Rust is a historic region with iconic 'Ruster Ausbruch' leading the wine styles produced. The lake acts both as a temperature regulator and more importantly as a source for the much needed autumn humidity and warmth for the spread of Noble Rot that is responsible for the region's signature style Ausbruch wines.
Further south, around the small towns of Zagersdorf and Pöttelsdorf, the conditions are more similar to the hot and dry Mittelburgenland which favors red wine production, mainly based on the Blaufränkisch grape variety. Baluburgunder (Pinot Noir) also produces elegant wines here, so does Zweigelt and to a lesser extent Cabernet Sauvignon.
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