Machherndl Winery – The Wachau With a Twist
The Machherndl Winery is located in Wösendorf an der Donau, in the heart of the Wachau region. Here, the region’s rich winemaking tradition meets a modern, independent approach to viticulture. Erich Machherndl is known for wines with a distinctive character, organic farming practices, and a willingness to try new things even when it means straying from the beaten path.
A Career Changer with a Distinctive Style
Erich Machherndl did not follow the traditional path to becoming a winemaker. A trained medical technician, he took over the winery in 1998 and has devoted himself exclusively to viticulture since 2002. From the very beginning, his goal has been to create wines with a clearly recognizable, distinctive style while preserving the unique characteristics of the Wachau.
In doing so, Machherndl combines traditional expertise with modern ideas. His philosophy is best described by the phrase “The Slightly Different Wachau”: While origin remains important, there is also room for experimentation, new ideas, and wines that don’t necessarily fit into the usual categories.
Organic Viticulture and Respect for the Soil
For Erich Machherndl, the soil is the foundation of his work. That is why cultivation methods that are as close to nature as possible play a central role. The winery has been certified organic since 2018 and is committed to organic farming.
For Machherndl, winemaking means not only producing good grapes, but also preserving the soils and natural conditions for future generations. Traditional methods are combined with modern winemaking techniques—from wooden vats to stainless steel tanks.
The Wachau: A Region with Character
The Wachau is characterized by its steep, terraced vineyards and a wide variety of soils and vineyard sites. At Machherndl, too, the individual vineyard plots play a decisive role. Among the most important sites are Bachsatz, Hochrain, Kollmitz, Kollmütz, Postolern, and Steinwand.
The fragmented structure of the Wachau means that soils, exposure, and microclimates can vary even over short distances. It is precisely these differences that Erich Machherndl seeks to bring out in his wines.
Grüner Veltliner and Riesling—but not only
As is typical for the Wachau, Grüner Veltliner and Riesling are also the focus at Machherndl. The wines range from Federspiel to Smaragd, showcasing the distinct characteristics of each vineyard.
Yet the winery deliberately goes beyond the classic Wachau varieties. Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Zweigelt, and even Syrah all have a place in the lineup. Added to these are whole-cluster fermented wines and the extraordinary “Pulp Fiction” series.
It is precisely this openness that makes Machherndl so interesting. Alongside classic Wachau wines, the winery produces wines that deliberately play with expectations and demonstrate just how versatile wine from the Wachau can be.
The Vineyards as the Foundation of the Wines
At Machherndl, origin takes center stage. The vineyards Bachsatz, Hochrain, Kollmitz, Kollmütz, Postolern, and Steinwand each offer distinct growing conditions and shape the character of the wines.
The Grüner Veltliners and Rieslings from these various sites are particularly exciting. Rather than imposing a uniform style across all wines, the winemaker strives to highlight the unique characteristics of each vineyard.
The result is a collection that both represents the classic Wachau style and showcases the winemaker’s personal touch.
Learn more about the Machherndl Winery and its wines on our partner site.
www.machherndl.com
FAQ
Where is the Machherndl Winery located?
The Machherndl Winery is located in Wösendorf an der Donau in the Wachau region of Lower Austria.
Is the Machherndl Winery certified organic?
Yes. The Machherndl Winery has been certified organic since 2018 and follows a viticultural approach that is as close to nature as possible.
What wines does the Machherndl Winery produce?
The most important varieties include Grüner Veltliner and Riesling. In addition, Machherndl produces Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Zweigelt, and Syrah, among others. Whole-bunch fermented wines and the Pulp Fiction series are also part of the lineup.
What does “Wachau With a Twist” mean?
This motto describes the winery’s unique approach. At Machherndl, traditional Wachau wines and classic grape varieties meet organic farming practices, new ideas, and more experimental wines.
Can you buy wines from Weingut Machherndl in Vienna?
Yes. You can purchase a selection of wines from Weingut Machherndl at the Corkout Wine Shop in Vienna.
