Weingut Nikolaihof Wachau
Niederösterreich
Weingut Nikolaihof Wachau, located in Mautern an der Donau in Lower Austria, is one of the oldest wineries in Austria with roots tracing back to Roman times. The estate is certified biodynamic under Demeter standards and has been managed by the Saahs family since 1894. Its buildings date mostly from the 15th century and stand on Roman foundations, including remnants of an early Christian basilica and a wine cellar built into a Roman underchurch, still in use today. The winery cultivates 21 hectares exclusively with white grape varieties, primarily Riesling and GrĂ¼ner Veltliner, with some vines reaching 50 years old. The wines mature in large oak barrels for up to 20 years, reflecting a deep tradition of quality winemaking. A notable feature is the world's largest wooden wine press, dating back around 350 years, which was restored and put back into operation in 2005. The estate also operates an organic guesthouse nearby, enhancing the visitor experience. The winery emphasizes traditional, biodynamic viticulture inspired by Rudolf Steiner's anthroposophical principles, positioning itself as a pioneer in sustainable wine production in Austria.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to explore Weingut Nikolaihof Wachau during the warmer months for a full experience of the vineyards and organic guesthouse. Booking tastings or tours in advance is recommended due to the winery's popularity. The estate offers a variety of products including wines and local specialties like apricot preserves. Discounts may be available for group bookings or wine club members. The winery's location in the Wachau region is accessible by car, and visitors should check opening hours ahead of their visit.
Interesting facts
- •The winery operates the world's largest wooden wine press, over 12 meters long and weighing around 2,000 kilograms.
- •The estate buildings stand on Roman foundations, including remains of an early Christian basilica and a Roman underchurch wine cellar still in use.
- •Weingut Nikolaihof is one of the oldest continuously operating wineries in Austria, with documented history dating back to around 470 AD.
- •The winery is certified under Demeter, practicing biodynamic viticulture inspired by Rudolf Steiner's anthroposophical methods.
- •The estate produces wines from vines up to 50 years old, with some barrels aging wine for up to 20 years.
History
The Nikolaihof estate's origins date back to Roman times, with archaeological evidence of early viticulture and Christian worship on site.
The current buildings are mainly from the 15th century and include remnants of the Agapitus Basilica where a synod was held in 985.
The Saahs family has owned the estate since 1894, adopting biodynamic farming methods from the 1970s onward.
The estate's wooden wine press, over 350 years old and the largest of its kind worldwide, symbolizes its long-standing winemaking heritage.
Over centuries, the estate has witnessed the evolution of viticulture through Roman rule, medieval ecclesiastical influence, and modern biodynamic practices.
Place Guide
Historic Wine Cellar15th century (building), Roman period (foundation)
A wine cellar built into a Roman underchurch, still actively used for aging wines, showcasing the deep historical roots of winemaking at the estate.
Wooden Wine Presscirca 17th century
The largest wooden wine press in the world, over 12 meters long, made from a single elm tree trunk, weighing approximately 2,000 kg. It was restored and returned to operation in 2005.
Organic Guesthouse 'ad vineas'2008
An organic hotel built in the Wachau style, located a few steps from the winery. It has 17 rooms and is operated by Elisabeth and Martin Samek, enhancing the visitor experience with sustainable hospitality.
Contact
Phone: 02732 82901
