Austria

The wine scandal of 1985 is seen by many to have been a negative experience for the Austrian industry. It essentially ruined the reputation of this country's wines, but at that time it had a reputation for churning out sub-standard, mass-produced muck. Much of which was shipped in container to Germany for repackaging. Thankfully the Austrians recognised the opportunity this represented. In 1986 the Austrian Wine Marketing Board was created and the country set about raising the quality and standards of its wine. Now we have so many great Austrian wines that it is almost a chore to try and chose between them. At the core of the revival lies the Gruner Veltliner grape- producing mostly 'modern' styled wines that are dry, crisp and capable of ageing.