Kracher
History and Background
Weingut Kracher, located in the Burgenland region of Austria, is synonymous with some of the world's finest sweet wines. The winery was catapulted to international fame under the leadership of the late Alois Kracher, who took over in the 1980s. His innovative approach to winemaking and his dedication to producing top-tier Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA) wines earned him and the estate global acclaim.
Vineyards and Terroir
Kracher's vineyards are situated in the Seewinkel area, a unique part of Burgenland:
- Lake Neusiedl: The presence of this large, shallow lake creates a special microclimate, with morning mists that are ideal for the development of noble rot (Botrytis cinerea), essential for their signature sweet wines.
- Soil Composition: The vineyards boast a mix of mineral-rich sandy and gravelly soils, which contribute to the wines' complexity and character.
Wine Style and Production
Kracher is celebrated for producing wines that are:
- Intensely sweet yet balanced by vibrant acidity, ensuring they are never cloying.
- Crafted using meticulous selection, with grapes often hand-harvested berry by berry to ensure only the best botrytized grapes are used.
While the winery is best known for its TBAs, it also produces a range of other styles, including dry wines and other sweet wine styles like Beerenauslese.
Reputation
Kracher's wines, particularly its TBAs, have consistently received high praise and scores from wine critics worldwide. The combination of the unique Seewinkel terroir, meticulous winemaking, and the innovative spirit of Alois Kracher has solidified the estate's reputation as one of the world's premier sweet wine producers.
Final Thoughts
Weingut Kracher stands as a testament to the potential of the Burgenland region and the heights that Austrian sweet wines can achieve. Through dedication, innovation, and a deep respect for the terroir, Kracher produces wines that are not only reflective of their origin but also rank among the world's most esteemed sweet wines. For those with a penchant for lusciously sweet yet balanced wines, Kracher is a must-try.