Taste and Tour Small Organic Wineries with a Winemaker

If you’re considering a wine-focused excursion around Vienna, the Taste and Tour Small Organic Wineries with a Winemaker offers a fascinating glimpse into Austria’s boutique wine scene. We haven’t done this tour ourselves, but based on detailed descriptions and glowing reviews, it looks like a genuine treat for anyone passionate about craftsmanship and small-scale vineyards. It’s perfect for those wanting more than just tastings — you get an educational journey along with intimate access to passionate winemakers.

What we love about this experience is how it combines personal insights from a seasoned winemaker with visits to diverse, family-run wineries. It’s also clear that the tour’s emphasis on organic practices and sustainability adds extra appeal for eco-conscious travelers. The second big plus? The views along the Danube are stunning, with a picturesque vineyard walk at the end that caps off the day beautifully.

A potential drawback? This tour involves some walking and stepping into cellar spaces — so if you’re not comfortable with physical activity or enclosed small rooms, it might not be ideal. Also, since it’s a private experience, it’s priced a bit higher than larger group tours, but many reviewers say the personalized attention makes it worthwhile.

This experience suits curious wine lovers eager to learn about small-scale, craft winemaking and enjoy a scenic drive through Austria’s lovely vineyards. It’s especially good for those who appreciate authentic stories behind each bottle and prefer intimate, hands-on encounters over crowded tours.

Key Points

• Unique Access to Small Organic Wineries: You’ll visit boutique producers like Kapitel Zwei and Mantlerhof, with a focus on organic and sustainable practices.
• Educational Experience: Since the host is a winemaker himself, expect in-depth insights about wine production and the region’s unique varietals.
• Scenic Route and Views: The Donau River provides a stunning backdrop, especially during the vineyard walk at the end.
• Diverse Wineries and Styles: From traditional family-run wineries to experimental micro-wineries making amphora-aged wines, you get a broad perspective.
• Flexible and Private: Only your group participates, which ensures a personalized experience.
• Good for Physically Moderate Travelers: Some walking and cellar visits are involved, so plan accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off at Bahnhofpl. 2, Krems an der Donau, a central location easily accessible by public transport. It lasts around three hours, with approximately 2.5 hours spent actually visiting wineries, plus about 30 minutes of driving between stops. The tour ends back at the starting point, which is convenient if you’re planning to explore more of Vienna or Krems afterward.

Stop 1: Kremsleithen & Kapitel Zwei

Your journey begins with a scenic drive from sea level to about 400 meters, giving you a taste of Austria’s varied terrain. The first stop is at Kapitel Zwei, a micro-winery in Krems. This particular vineyard is fascinating because it re-planting a decades-old, abandoned vineyard in May 2022, using French varietals like Chenin Blanc, Roussanne, and Sémillon.

Here, the owner actively demonstrates what it means to grow grapes organically and sustainably. The grapes are handpicked from a single vineyard, Kremsleithen, which boasts loamy, sandy soil mixed with clay — a perfect environment for producing expressive wines. The fact that the vineyard’s history dates back to 1266 adds a charming sense of connection to the land’s long tradition.

The experience at Kapitel Zwei is hands-on, with the owner sharing insights into the organic growing process and the experimentation with amphora and steel tanks for aging. With free admission, this stop offers a glimpse into innovative winemaking, ideal for those interested in biodiversity and wine terroir.

Stop 2: Mantlerhof

Next, the tour heads to Gedersdorf, a quaint village near the river Kamp, just before it joins the Danube. Mantlerhof, a family-operated winery with roots dating back to 1365, is the highlight here. The estate is well-respected for its long tradition and organic wines, especially Grüner Veltliner and Roter Veltliner.

Walking through vineyards and the old manor, you’ll get to see how a centuries-old winemaking heritage continues today. The owners’ commitment to long-lasting organic wines makes this visit particularly interesting for those who value heritage and consistent quality.

The reviews mention that the hosts are welcoming and eager to share their craft, which adds a personal touch you won’t find at larger commercial wineries. The free admission means this visit is about more than just tasting; it’s about understanding a family’s livelihood and passion.

Stop 3: Feldtheorie in Schoenberg am Kamp

Moving into the Kamptal region, you’ll meet the duo behind Weingut Feldtheorie. Their story is especially appealing because they transitioned from studying natural sciences to winemaking, inspired by global experiences in Germany, Australia, and New Zealand.

This stop showcases their belief in expressing the uniqueness of Kamptal through natural wines. Their approach emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the vineyards’ natural character to shine through. Visitors who love authenticity, science-backed methods, and small-batch wines will find this stop particularly engaging.

Stop 4: WeinSchach in Langenlois

For a different experience, the tour features a visit to WeinSchach, a sparkling wine producer focusing on biological production methods. Their goal is to create Pet Nat (Pétillant Naturel) wines that can stand alongside world-class sparkling wines.

This winery’s emphasis on experimental approaches and hand harvesting produces wines that are full of personality. Reviewers appreciated the freedom the winery gives their wines to develop naturally, which is a refreshing approach in the sparkling wine world.

Final Stop: Vineyard Walk at Ausblick am Welterbesteig

The tour wraps up with a short walk through vineyards to a viewpoint overlooking the region. This scenic moment is quieter, allowing you to reflect on the day and soak in the landscape of Austria’s wine country. The view offers a great photo opportunity, making the experience both visual and contemplative.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Based on reviews and the detailed itinerary, several features shine through. First, the knowledgeable host makes a real difference. Multiple reviewers mention how much they learned about winemaking, from the soil to bottle, thanks to the host’s personal insights. This isn’t just a tasting, but an educational experience rooted in passion and expertise.

The variety of wineries visited is another big plus. From micro-wineries experimenting with amphora aging to long-standing family estates and innovative sparkling producers, the diversity keeps the experience fresh and engaging. Plus, the personal stories shared by each host lend authenticity and deepen your appreciation for the craft.

The scenic drives and views along the Danube add a special charm. The short vineyard walk at the end provides a peaceful conclusion, with plenty of opportunities for photos and reflection. For many, this balance of education, scenery, and intimate access creates a memorable outing.

Many reviews highlight the warmth and friendliness of the hosts, with guests feeling like they’ve been welcomed into a friends’ cellar rather than simply taking a tour. This personal touch is a major selling point, especially if you want to avoid large, impersonal group experiences.

Analyzing the Price and Overall Value

At $112.65 per person, the tour isn’t the cheapest available in Vienna, but considering it’s a private, personalized experience with multiple stops, it offers good value. The inclusion of local, small wineries and the chance to learn directly from the winemaker make it a worthwhile investment for true wine enthusiasts.

This price also covers the transportation between locations and the expert guidance, which would cost much more if arranged independently. The fact that most stops are free of charge means you’re paying primarily for the experience, knowledge, and access, not just tastings.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adults who enjoy learning about wine and are comfortable with a moderate amount of walking and cellar visits. It’s ideal if you want an authentic, intimate look at Austrian wines and appreciate a guided, educational approach. Families with older children might enjoy the scenic walk and storytelling, but it’s not designed as a family-focused activity.

If you’re someone who values small, family-run wineries and wants to explore alternative winemaking methods, you’ll find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s also a good fit if you prefer a private experience over larger group tours, valuing personalized attention and insider access.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including driving time between stops and the vineyard walk.

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes transportation between the various wineries, with pickup offered from a central location in Krems.

Are there any restrictions or physical requirements? The tour involves some walking and the chance to enter cellar spaces, so moderate physical fitness is recommended. It’s not suitable for those uncomfortable with walking into small rooms or with mobility issues.

What is the cancellation policy? You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start are not refunded.

Are children allowed on this tour? The tour is designed for adults; it’s not specifically aimed at children, and some walking and cellar entry might not be suitable for very young guests.

What does the tour include? The tour includes visits to multiple wineries, a scenic vineyard walk, and the opportunity to learn directly from a winemaker about organic and sustainable practices.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an authentic, intimate look into Austria’s boutique wine scene, this Taste and Tour experience offers a thoughtfully curated journey. You’ll learn about small-scale, organic winemaking, enjoy stunning views, and connect with passionate producers, all in a relaxed and personalized setting.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want more than just tasting — those eager to understand the stories behind each bottle and see the region through the eyes of someone deeply involved in the craft. Expect a warm welcome, a wealth of insights, and a memorable day exploring Austria’s lesser-known wine treasures.

Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or simply curious about what makes Austrian wines so unique, this tour is a compelling way to deepen your appreciation and enjoy some beautiful scenery along the way.