At Weingut Kracher, one grape variety not only dominates our vineyards in size – it also stirs the deepest emotions: Welschriesling. Covering around 40% of our vineyard area, it’s our most important variety – and for good reason. Its versatility is remarkable: from crisp, dry white wines to elegant blends and opulent Trockenbeerenauslesen, Welschriesling reveals a stunning range of expressions.
Climate-Resilient and Full of Character
Welschriesling is not only intriguing in terms of aroma, it’s also an agronomic asset. As a late-ripening variety, it thrives under the climatic conditions of the Seewinkel: it can withstand both prolonged heat and drought as well as high humidity – the ideal environment for Botrytis, which is essential for our world-renowned sweet wines.
Old Vines, Exceptional Quality
One of our greatest treasures is the oldest Welschriesling vineyard on the estate, planted in 1959 by Alois Kracher Sr. These old vines produce small, intensely flavored berries. Yields may be low, but quality is consistently high. We use cuttings from this precious vineyard to plant new vines – preserving tradition and excellence for future generations.
World-Famous in Sweet – and Underrated in Dry
Welschriesling has gained international attention thanks to our Trockenbeerenauslesen. One of the most celebrated examples is the TBA No. 7 Welschriesling 2012, which received a perfect 100-point score from Wine Advocate – a true milestone for our estate. Yet Welschriesling also plays a vital role as a blending partner in our Beerenauslese and Grande Cuvée Trockenbeerenauslese wines.
In recent years, its dry expression has found a growing fan base. With delicate apricot aromas, a touch of creaminess, lively acidity and a harmonious finish, Welschriesling proves it can deliver elegance and finesse.
At Kracher, Welschriesling plays a key role in many of our cuvées. In the dry K Cuvée (Chardonnay, Scheurebe, Welschriesling), aged up to four years in barrique, it lends graceful lightness to the finish. In the Spätlese Cuvée (50% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Blanc, 10% Welschriesling), it adds fresh stone fruit aromas and vitality. In the Auslese Cuvée, Beerenauslese Cuvée, NV Noble TBA and Grande Cuvée TBA, it harmonizes beautifully with Chardonnay – the latter contributing power and citrus fruit, while Welschriesling adds freshness, structure and a precise, elegant acidity. The result is a benchmark in balance and complexity.
Our Conclusion
Welschriesling is far more than a solid white wine. It’s a character actor, a team player and a world-class grape – whether vinified dry, as a noble sweet wine or as a key component in a cuvée.
Discover the full potential of Welschriesling – in our online shop or directly at the winery!