Rudi Pichler is one of the most established producers in the Wachau. His vineyards, spread across Joching, Wösendorf and Weißenkirchen, produce white wines brimming with character. In addition to Grüner Veltliner and Riesling, Rudi Pichler cultivates Pinot Blanc and the voluminous Roter Veltliner.
Rudi knows how to breathe a lot of varietal character into each wine style; his Federspiel Grüner Veltliner is always a favourite with connoisseurs as it combines a lively style with classic Wachau varietal expression. With the great Smaragd wines, Pichler and the next generation, Theresa and Rudi Junior, succeed in bringing out the terroir beautifully. After a few years in the bottle, these powerful wines develop their full splendour. Rudi Pichler is not afraid to adapt his winemaking; the fermentation period, which was longer in previous years, has been shortened to better suit the desired style. Maceration times are carefully considered for each variety and wine style. The result is nuanced top wines, each with a very individual character.
The modern winery, inaugurated in 2004, is not only architecturally stunning but also provides the space to press, ferment and age the wines in optimal conditions. Rudi Pichler's characteristic new range is characterised by an immense minerality, tautness and depth of aromas - the different terroirs unfolding in a very precise way. Tasting these remarkable wines, especially the outstanding Grüner Veltliner and the Riesling Achleithen is always a pleasure. The Falstaff editorial team voted Rudi Pichler "Winemaker of the Year" in 2010.
