Sturm Wine Vienna – Seasonal Sips & Traditions

Sturm Wine Vienna. Sturm is a semi-fermented unfiltered grape juice made from the first grapes harvested in the season. The term Sturm translates to storm because of its cloudy appearance, reminding you of the lively fermentation at play. Strictly speaking, Sturm marks the transition of grape juice into wine, it is therefore not (yet) wine.

While this drink is part of Eastern Austria’s wine making tradition it appears in some local variations in the Czech Republic, Germany, and Switzerland. 

When first produced, Sturm contains very little alcohol, around 1-2% ABV (Alcohol By Volume). As fermentation progresses, the alcohol content increases. By the time it's typically consumed, Sturm usually contains about 4-5% ABV. If left to ferment completely, it can reach up to 10-11% ABV, similar to regular wine. The exact alcohol content can vary depending on factors like the sugar content of the grapes, temperature, and duration of fermentation.

What Makes Sturm Special?

    • Sturm Wine Vienna. Depending on the harvest time, vintners release their first Sturm between September and October.  Why do many wine lovers adore Sturm?
    • Because it tastes both sweet and acidic, Sturm feels complex and refreshing at the same time. 
    • Its slightly fizzy texture gives it a unique mouthfeel. Because Sturm is actively fermenting, the alcohol content can change rapidly, making it somewhat unpredictable. This means you can get tipsy easily without noticing it first.  
    • Due to its ongoing fermentation, Sturm continues to produce carbon dioxide, which can cause bottles to explode if sealed tightly. Therefore, vintners typically sell it in open containers or with special closures that allow gas to escape. A local wine maker will be able to tell you more about creating a good Sturm.

    To maintain its authenticity, Sturm must be made exclusively from grapes harvested and processed in Austria. In Germany, this type of drink goes under the name of Federweisser or Neuer Wine, in Switzerland under Sauser and in the Czech Republic under Burčák

    Why Sturm Carries Cultural Significance?

    Shortly after the grape harvest in September many vintners sell their Sturm either directly in their vineyards in pop up stalls, or right in their own wine taverns (Heurige).  

    How To Drink Sturm


    • Sturm Wine Vienna. Sturm usually comes fresh and cool in a tumbler or a wine glass   In general the drink pairs well with traditional Austrian dishes. Here are some popular food pairings:
    • Meat dishes like roast pork, beef gulash, or Wiener Schnitzel , Dumplings or hearty potato dishes. The acidity in it cuts through the starchiness, which enhances the overall flavors of the meal.
    • Local cheeses and cured meats. The drink’s complexity improves the flavors of the cheese and meats and makes it a delightful appetizer.

    Where to Find the Best Sturm In Vienna


    • If you want to fully experience Sturm in Vienna and surroundings, visit a Heuriger, a classic Austrian wine tavern. The Family-run businesses serve wines made from grapes in their own vineyards. When looking for the best Sturm, keep an eye out for the following: 
    • In Vienna, the 19th district, Döbling, is renowned for its Heurige. Here, you can find many taverns that serve freshly made Sturm. They offer you to taste the local harvest in a charming setting.
    • Many Heurige are located amidst the scenic vineyards of Vienna. Therefore, enjoying a glass of Sturm with stunning views of the autumn landscape adds to the overall experience. While Heurige don't generally offer guided wine tasting you can join a wine expert on a tour through local wineries.
    • Apart from a Heuriger, you can also buy Sturm at local wine festivals in Vienna, such as the "Stürmische Tage" in Stammersdorf.
    • Supermarkets also sell Sturm during the season.

    Why is Sturm a Toast to Local Traditions?


    As long as I can think back, Sturm has always gone hand in hand with the start of autumn, school and the wine harvest. In my family it mattered to know whether Sturm was already available at the local wineries. Because of its lower alcohol content at the start of the season our parents allowed us to try Sturm long before wine. 
    If you are lucky enough to be in Vienna during the Sturm season, head out to the wineries of Vienna and the Vienna Woods. Most wine taverns are close to the vineyards, for example around Gumpoldskirchen or Vienna’s Nussberg. Many hiking paths through the vineyards will also have a few pop ups serving Sturm on the way. Unless you are absolutely firm with alcohol make sure you eat some snacks with it.

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