Tucked into the rolling hills of Klöch in southern Styria, the Domittner Winery is a hidden gem that brings together heartfelt hospitality and exceptional wines.
Perched directly on the renowned Traminer hiking trail and next to the family-run Hotel and Restaurant Domittner, the estate is a story of two brothers, two passions, and one unique destination. While Herbert delights visitors with regional culinary delicacies, wine pairings, and cozy accommodation, Günther Domittner is the quiet architect of the winery’s remarkable success story.
A Family Legacy Rooted in the Vine
The Domittner winery today spans 14 hectares, of which 12 are dedicated to the family’s own premium wine production. The remaining 2 hectares are managed cooperatively with another estate. Despite being the second generation, Günther Domittner essentially built the winery from scratch. His father, Karl Domittner, originally cultivated only 0.6 hectares to supply the family restaurant.
In 1990, after graduating from the prestigious School of Viticulture in Silberberg, Günther constructed a new wine cellar and began producing wine under the Domittner name. Over the decades, he has developed a reputation for excellence, crafting high-quality wines that showcase the richness of the local terroir. The estate is conventionally managed but fully certified by “Nachhaltig Austria” for its sustainable practices. Notably, herbicides and insecticides are avoided, out of deep respect for nature and biodiversity.
A Volcanic Terroir with Ancient Roots
The distinctive character of Domittner wines owes much to the unique geological history of Klöch. Around 2 million years ago, volcanic eruptions shaped the land, leaving behind tuff and basaltic rock formations. The single vineyard sites “Hochwarth” and “Klöchberg” feature silty clays, clay loams, and gravel-rich subsoils that challenge vines with restricted water availability but reward them with depth and complexity. The soils are well-aerated, nutrient-moderate, and free of carbonates, with manganese concretions indicating occasional water stress—an important factor in developing concentrated flavor profiles.
These demanding yet rewarding conditions are particularly suited to aromatic varieties, especially the iconic Traminer family of grapes.
Traminer: Expressive Aromatics with a Pannonian Touch
Klöch is synonymous with Traminer. Thanks to its location in the warmest part of the Vulkanland Steiermark wine region—where hot winds from the Pannonian steppe meet Illyrian Mediterranean humidity—this area provides ideal conditions for cultivating Roter Traminer, Gewürztraminer, and the lesser-known but vibrant Gelber Traminer.
Gelber Traminer stands out with citrus-driven aromatics and higher natural acidity, offering a lively contrast to the spicy intensity of Gewürztraminer. The volcanic soils enhance ripeness and aromatic complexity, while cool nighttime air ensures freshness and balance. Domittner’s expressions of Traminer reflect both the richness of the soil and the finesse of the climate.
Wine Tasting
Gelber Muskateller: Pale straw yellow in color, this Gelber Muskateller opens with a delicate, floral and herbal bouquet, accented by stone fruit aromas, hints of lychee, mandarin orange, and a subtle touch of dark berries and smoky bacon nuance. On the palate, it is youthful and vibrant, showing lightly sweet citrus notes, supported by a lively acidity and a gentle tannic grip. Subtle yeasty undertones and fennel hints add complexity. The finish reveals chalky and salty mineral notes, with lingering impressions of red berries.
Gewürztraminer Klöch reveals delicate rose petals, lychee, ripe peach, and a touch of pineapple with a soft mineral backbone. A juicy, subtly sweet palate leads to a clean and balanced finish. A refreshing, expressive white wine from the volcanic soils of Klöch — graceful and versatile.
Riesling Ried Klöchberg: This single-vineyard Riesling from Ried Klöchberg opens with bright aromas of yellow and white stone fruits — melon, peach, and a touch of citrus. The golden color hints at its richness. On the palate, it’s juicy and vibrant, with high, refreshing acidity and a distinct mineral core. The finish is long, elegant, and pleasantly persistent — a pure expression of volcanic soil and Styrian finesse.
Not Just White: A Future for Red Wines Too
Though renowned for its white wines, Vulkanland’s warm climate and iron-rich red soils around Königsberg also support robust reds. Domittner’s vineyards include Zweigelt and St. Laurent, varieties that thrive here and offer structure, depth, and spicy elegance. These red wines underscore the potential of this region beyond its aromatic whites.
A Wine Lover’s Destination
The Domittner experience is more than just wine—it’s a harmonious blend of terroir, taste, and tourism. Visitors can follow one of four well-marked wine trails winding through the scenic hills, enjoy tastings at the winery, or savor regional dishes at the family’s restaurant, paired perfectly with their wines. And for those wishing to linger longer, the adjacent hotel offers a peaceful retreat among the vines.
Styrian pumpkin seed oil, another regional delicacy, adds a finishing touch to the culinary offerings, while the surrounding landscape offers natural beauty, tranquility, and insight into one of Austria’s most unique wine cultures.