Taste and Tour Small Organic Wineries with a Winemaker

If you’re craving a more intimate, authentic wine experience near Vienna, this Taste and Tour Small Organic Wineries with a Winemaker promises just that. Guided by a passionate local who is both a vineyard owner and a viticulture student, this three-hour adventure offers a rare behind-the-scenes look into Austria’s boutique wine scene. What sets it apart? The opportunity to meet real winemakers, taste a curated selection of organic wines, and soak in panoramic vineyard views—all with a relaxed, personable approach.

This tour is especially appealing if you love small-scale, sustainable wine production. You’ll appreciate the personal insights into winemaking from a knowledgeable guide and get to explore a variety of wineries, from micro-estates to family-run vineyards. Be prepared for some walking and city driving—perfect for those who enjoy a bit of countryside charm with cultural richness. A potential consideration? The tour involves some physical activity, including walking down into cellars and short hikes to scenic viewpoints, so it’s best suited for those with moderate mobility and a taste for adventure.

If you’re a wine enthusiast, keen on understanding organic and sustainable practices, or simply eager to see Austria’s lesser-known wine regions, this experience is ideal. It’s equally suited for curious travelers wanting a mix of education and authentic insider access, rather than a rushed, commercial winery visit.

Key Points

• Authentic Small-Scale Wine Experiences: Visit boutique, family-run wineries that focus on organic production.
• Educational and Personal: Meet winemakers, learn about their craft, and see the process from vine to bottle.
• Stunning Scenic Views: Enjoy a walk through vineyards and panoramic vistas over Krems and surrounding regions.
• Flexible, Personalized Tour: With only your group, the guide can tailor the experience and share insider stories.
• Value for Money: At just over $112, the tour offers a comprehensive and intimate look into Austria’s wine culture.
• Physical Activity Included: Expect some walking and light hikes, which add to the immersive experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Wineries and the Experience

Beginning the Tour: Pickup and Introduction
While the exact pickup process isn’t detailed, it’s clear that the tour begins in Krems, with a meeting point at Bahnhofpl. 2. This central location makes it easy for travelers to hop on public transport or arrange a nearby parking spot. The guide, a seasoned professional with twenty-five years at IBM and deep local connections, kicks things off by sharing his personal background—he’s not just a vineyard owner but also a viticulture student, which adds layers of expertise and enthusiasm to the trip.

Stop 1: Kremsleithen at Kapitel Zwei Wine
The first stop takes us about 20 minutes’ drive from Krems center, up a winding road to the micro-winery called Kapitel Zwei. This place is a true gem: a small-scale, experimental vineyard dedicated to organic farming of French grape varieties like Chenin Blanc, Roussanne, and Sémillon. The grapes are handpicked from Kremsleithen, an area with historical roots dating back to 1266, grown on a steep, loamy, sandy, and clay-rich hillside at 300 meters elevation.

What makes this visit stand out? The focus on organic and sustainable practices—the grapes are grown without synthetic chemicals—and the innovative approach to aging wines in amphorae and steel tanks. The owners are replanting a historic vineyard abandoned decades ago, adding a sense of renewal and dedication to tradition. Reviewers note that the owner’s passion shines through, and the hands-on experience of seeing the vineyard and tasting the wines makes this stop a highlight.

Stop 2: Weingut Mantlerhof
Next, we head about 45 minutes east to Gedersdorf, near the confluence of the Kamp and Danube rivers. Here, the Mantlerhof estate has been in operation since 1365—an astonishing 650+ years of family winemaking history. This traditional, organic-focused winery produces long-lasting wines, especially Grüner Veltliner and Roter Veltliner, in their 15 hectares of vineyards.

The old manor, with its classicist façade, exudes history and charm. The family-run operation prioritizes organic practices for wines that age beautifully, making it a true reflection of terroir. Reviewers appreciated the personal approach, with one noting, “We were greeted by the winery owner at each place and given a description of their wine-making craft and intent.” The opportunity to taste wines crafted with such historical reverence adds a special dimension to the experience.

Stop 3: Weingut Feldtheorie in Schoenberg am Kamp
From there, it’s about a half-hour drive to Schoenberg am Kamp, where Ulrike and Robert run Weingut Feldtheorie. Their journey from science students to winemakers is inspiring—they studied natural sciences, traveled abroad, and finally settled into their Kamptal vineyard. Their goal is to evoke the essence of Kamptal’s terroir in their natural wines.

Visitors can expect a warm welcome and a relaxed atmosphere, with the chance to chat about their sustainable practices. As one reviewer mentioned, “He took us to a few different wine cellars and vineyards, including his own, where we learned the ins and outs of winemaking.” Their focus on minimal intervention results in wines that truly express the land, making this stop both educational and authentic.

Stop 4: WeinSchach in Langenlois
The fourth stop takes us to Langenlois, home of WeinSchach, a sparkling wine pioneer. Their philosophy is simple: nature provides everything needed for extraordinary wines, and they work biologically to produce pet nat (pétillant naturel) wines that rival standard sparkling wines globally.

Expect to see hands-on methods like harvesting by hand and de-gorging the bottles—small details that elevate this experience. The winery’s experimentation and dedication to uncovering new possibilities translate into exciting, fresh wines. Reviewers highlight the passion behind their biological processes, which results in lively, expressive bubbles.

Final Stop: Ausblick am Welterbesteig
The tour concludes with a short walk through vineyards up to a viewpoint overlooking the region. This offers a perfect moment to soak in the scenery and reflect on the day’s experiences. It’s a peaceful finish, about 10 minutes, with panoramic views that make the trip’s scenic aspect a true highlight.

What You Can Expect in Terms of Logistics and Value

Transportation and Timing
The tour lasts approximately three hours, including about 30 minutes of travel between stops. Starting at noon and running until early evening, it fits well into a leisurely day. The group size is private, ensuring personalized attention and flexible pacing. The guide’s local connections mean you’re visiting wineries that aren’t overrun by travelers, providing a more authentic experience.

Cost and What You’re Getting
At $112.65 per person, the price is quite reasonable considering you visit multiple wineries, meet passionate winemakers, and gain insight into organic practices. No extra charges are mentioned, and the tour includes free visits to each winery, making it great value.

Walking and Physical Activity
Expect some walking, including a short hike to a scenic viewpoint and possibly descending into cellars. The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, but not recommended for anyone uncomfortable with walking into cellars or on uneven terrain. Reviewers note that the experience is intimate and often involves walking into small rooms or cellars, adding to the authenticity.

Authentic Experiences and Insider Access

This isn’t your typical winery tour. Multiple reviews mention how guides like Chris (the guide and owner) bring enthusiasm and deep knowledge, making each visit feel personal. One reviewer said, “His enthusiasm and joy in winemaking was evident from the minute we met him—it was infectious.” It’s clear that the guide’s connections with local winemakers create a sense of insider access.

Guests loved the opportunity to taste unique wines crafted with care—some wines are experimental, others are traditional but all are organic. The tour emphasizes small producers, giving a taste of what makes Austrian wine distinctive—attention to detail, respect for nature, and a personal touch.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re looking for a deep dive into Austria’s boutique wine scene, this tour is a treasure. You’ll walk away with a broader knowledge of organic and sustainable practices, a collection of unique wines, and memorable views. The private nature of the tour means you get tailored insights and friendly interaction, far from commercialized winery visits.

It’s especially valuable for wine lovers, eco-conscious travelers, and curious explorers who appreciate authenticity and craftsmanship. While it requires a moderate level of walking and comfort with small spaces, the overall experience is enriching, immersive, and fun.

This tour offers a rare chance to see Austria’s small wineries, meet dedicated winemakers, and enjoy some of the best organic wines in the region—all in a manageable, well-paced package.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes about three hours, including travel time between wineries and the vineyard walk.

Is transportation included?
While the tour starts at a specified meeting point, transport between wineries is by private vehicle, with approximately 30 minutes spent driving.

What is the group size?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Are the wineries free to visit?
Yes, all winery visits are included at no extra charge, and the tour price covers the entire experience.

What kinds of wines will I taste?
Expect a curated selection of organic wines, including innovative styles like amphora-aged whites and natural reds, with a focus on quality over quantity.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
Yes, there will be walking, some into cellars and to scenic viewpoints, so moderate physical fitness is recommended. It’s not suitable for those who can’t walk down into cellars or who dislike walking on uneven ground.

In summary, this small-group organic winery tour near Vienna offers a genuinely enriching experience. It combines educational insights, authentic winemaking stories, and beautiful views—perfect for travelers who value quality, sustainability, and personal connections over mass-market tours. If you’re eager to understand Austria’s wine culture from passionate local producers and enjoy a leisurely, customizable outing, this tour is a fantastic choice.