Burgenland is Austria’s easternmost wine region, situated south of Niederösterreich and north of Steiermark, and bordering Hungary along its entire eastern flank. It is also home to lake Neusiedl (or Neusiedlersee), Europe’s largest steppe lake. The Nittnaus family has resided in the town of Gols, on Neusiedlersee’s eastern edge, since 1684. Today, third-generation Hans Nittnaus and his wife Anita helm the winery his grandfather Johann began in 1927, taking over from his father in 1985. Hans & Anita are regarded today not only as influential pioneers of contemporary Burgenland’s dynamic wine scene, but as among the greatest growers in all of Austria. 

Cuvée Anita is composed mostly of Zweigelt with splashes of Blaufränkisch and Sankt Laurent, “Anita” shows off Nittnaus’ knack for producing lip-smackingly delicious reds. Soaring acidity lets the spice-drenched red and black fruits dance on the palate, and the wine bristles with energy.

Pairing: Charcuterie

Grape: Zweigelt, Blaufränkisch, St. Laurent, Merlot 

Soil: Sandy clay with varying levels of flint

Viticulture: Biodynamic, low sulfur