Hutberg celebrates its 30th anniversary
The Schöfmann winery from the Austrian Weinviertel region has something to celebrate! We are delighted to announce that our red wine cuvée Hutberg is celebrating its 30th birthday!
In the series 'Weinviertel Insights', siblings Anna and Laurenz Schöfmann report on life and work on their winegrower's farm.
What's behind the Hutberg?
The Hutberg is the highest point in Haugsdorf. Since the Weinviertel region is characterized by gently rolling hills and lacks the high peaks of other Austrian states, our Hutberg, at a proud 296 meters, is already considered a mountain. And you certainly feel it. Anyone who has ever conquered the Hutberg by bicycle will remember the strenuous uphill pedaling through Haugsdorf's wine cellar lane.
Image: The Schöfmann family celebrates the 30th anniversary of Hutberg
The cellar lane is one of the most picturesque spots in Haugsdorf, offering a tranquil atmosphere as you walk up it towards Hutberg. Wine was once produced in this lane, including in the Schöfmann family's wine cellar. Recently, a generational change took place here – the young winemakers Laurenz and Anna Schöfmann now own the family wine cellar and already have many exciting ideas for its future use.
Reaching the top of the hill, you're rewarded with a breathtaking view across the Weinviertel region. On clear days, you can even see the snow-capped peaks of the Alpine foothills. What makes this place so special? You're surrounded by tranquil nature; vineyards and scattered fruit trees characterize the cultural landscape, and apart from the occasional tractor, there's no traffic to be heard. Pure idyll!
On this vineyard, the Schöfmann family has found the best red wine site in the area for planting vines. Varieties such as Zweigelt, Pinot Noir, and Grüner Veltliner thrive here under perfect climatic conditions. Laurenz and Anna particularly enjoy working in the vineyard, as they can enjoy a beautiful view of Haugsdorf and take a break in the shade at the "Hüata-Hütte" (Hüata Hut).
This is where the name of this mountain comes from, by the way. Hutberg doesn't actually derive from "hat," but from "to guard" or "to watch over." The hut at the very top was formerly the workplace of a so-called "guardian," who watched over the grapes from theft. Today, the "Hüata Hut" is a lovely spot for relaxing, picnicking, and barbecuing.
Image: Morning mood in Haugsdorf am Hutberg
And what does the mountain have to do with the 30th anniversary?
In 1990, Toni Schöfmann returned from his internship year in the Palatinate region to his parents' winery to make his own wines. He created a red wine cuvée and was looking for a suitable name. Even though Latin terms for cuvées were all the rage at the time, my uncle opted for the more authentic name, one that emphasized the wine's origin. Cuvée Hutberg was born! This wine was vinified 30 years ago in the family cellar in the Haugsdorf cellar lane from the Zweigelt and Blauer Portugieser grape varieties. Incidentally, a few bottles from the first 1990 vintage are still there, maturing at the optimal temperature.
Image: Hutberg red wine cuvée
The style of the Cuvée Hutberg is unmistakable. A balanced fruitiness reminiscent of blueberries and dark cherries is complemented by a subtle spiciness and a delightful drinkability. A wine that pairs wonderfully with any dish – a versatile food companion! This is what defines the red wines of the Schöfmann winery, which has specialized in the production of characterful red wines for several years.
Hutberg on his travels
For our anniversary year, we've come up with something truly special. We're sending Hutberg on a journey! We're running a competition until the end of the year. Send us a photo of your Hutberg moment and where you like to enjoy this red wine. It could be on the terrace, at a friend's house, by the lake, or even in the mountains. We at Weingut Schöfmann are looking forward to your snapshots, which you can send us anytime via the social media channels of Winetory.net or Weingut Anton Schöfmann. At the end of the year, three Hutberg anniversary wine packages, each containing six bottles, will be raffled off among all photo submissions.
So order your Cuvée Hutberg to your home and taste the fruity, Weinviertel red wine style!
About the authors Anna and Laurenz Schöfmann
Anna Schöfmann and her brother Laurenz Schöfmann represent the next generation at the Schöfmann winery, located in northern Lower Austria. Here, three generations work together, united by a passion for expressive red and white wines. Winemaker Anton Schöfmann is supported by the younger generation in all aspects of wine production and at events. Their grandfather also makes a significant contribution, offering advice and practical assistance – in a family business, everyone complements each other.
Image: Laurenz and Anna Schöfmann in their wine shop in Haugsdorf in the Weinviertel region
Anna discovered her love of wine during her five-year tourism apprenticeship. She was able to participate in national and international wine competitions, which gave her a glimpse into the diverse and exciting world of the wine industry. In 2017, Anna decided to study International Wine Business to learn more about wine production and the wine market. With her growing interest in wine, Anna took on more and more responsibilities at her family's winery and, together with her brother Laurenz, is shaping the future of the Schöfmann winery.
Laurenz has been driving a tractor since early childhood, helping out at the winery and on the farm. He knew for a long time that his path would lead him to the Federal Higher Institute for Viticulture and Pomology, from which he will graduate in 2021. In the meantime, he has already gained considerable practical experience in the Kamptal and Thermenregion regions.
"What we enjoy most about winemaking is being out and about in the vineyards, in wine shops and at events. The love for the product is just as important as innovation and openness to new ideas."
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