Weingut Nikolaihof

Mautern, Wachau

Nikolaihof is the oldest wine estate in Austria, dating back two thousand years. Its history is well documented due to the significance of the site . Originally established as a fort by the Romans in 63BC, the current buildings stand on these original foundations and the cellar itself is constructed in a Roman crypt. Wines are said to have been produced here since the time of the Celts, with the first winemaking referenced in writings from 470AD. It went on to serve the church for various administrative purposes, before the present chapel was established in the 15th century.

Today this historic estate is owned by Nikolaus and Christine Saahs, who are natural custodians of its unique heritage. They run the estate on strict bio-dynamic principles since the 1970's and was one of Europe's earliest certified bio-dynamic wineries. They also practice what they preach and even the more esoteric elements of bio-dynamics seem to fit perfectly with the spiritual history of the estate.

The vineyard area totals 20 hectares, predominantly in the Wachau with a small area in neighbouring Kremstal. The soils are decomposed granite, gneiss and mica and many of the sites have old vines. All vineyards are managed according to the phases of the moon and without any chemical fertilisers or biocides (fungicides, herbicides, pesticides). The wines are fermented with natural yeasts without any technical or chemical assistance, including temperature control. After fermentation they remain on their lees, often for long periods, many in meticulously maintained old casks of between 2,000 and 20,000 litres.

The result is some of the greatest white wines we have been privileged to taste. Delicate with strong mineral accents and deep concentration, their low alcohol and crystalline purity is the antithesis of the late picked, high alcohol, high extract styles that are famous from the Wachau. These are wines that demand your time.