In a testament to almost two decades of dedicated and visionary leadership, the Dürnstein winegrowers' cooperative, Domäne Wachau, has been crowned "Winemaker of the Year 2024" by the esteemed wine magazine "Falstaff."
This prestigious accolade celebrates the tireless efforts of winery manager and Master of Wine Roman Horvath, along with cellar master Heinz Frischengruber, who have masterfully steered the cooperative towards a bright and promising future.
The award was presented at the VieVinum 2024, held in the historic Vienna Hofburg, where Falstaff’s wine editor-in-chief, Peter Moser, lauded the dynamic duo's exceptional contributions. “Roman Horvath and Heinz Frischengruber are leading the Domäne Wachau into a successful future with great sensitivity. Their wine range acts as a multi-award-winning ambassador for the entire Wachau wine-growing region,” Moser noted, emphasizing the seamless blend of tradition and innovation that has become the hallmark of Domäne Wachau.
A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
Horvath and Frischengruber have forged a unique path, integrating the rich traditions of the Wachau region with innovative practices that have set new benchmarks in viticulture. Their approach has resulted in a portfolio of wines that are celebrated for their precision and terroir expression. This meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality has solidified Domäne Wachau's reputation both nationally and internationally as a leader in the production of premium wines.
The Power of Collaboration
Central to the success of Domäne Wachau is the cooperative model that harnesses the collective expertise of its winegrowers. These dedicated individuals cultivate an average of less than two hectares each, often on steep terraces, working meticulously and primarily by hand. Their efforts are integral to the creation of wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Wachau region.
Roman Horvath, reflecting on the cooperative's achievement, expressed profound gratitude. “The fact that we were awarded ‘Winemaker of the Year’ as a cooperative is of course spectacular and only possible as a strong team. I think we have now developed a style that is unmistakable and combines a distinctive puristic style, with both depth and freshness which can be found in our single vineyard wines,” he said. This sentiment underscores the cooperative spirit that drives Domäne Wachau and highlights the importance of teamwork in their ongoing success.
A Visionary Approach to Viticulture
Under Horvath and Frischengruber’s guidance, Domäne Wachau has not only preserved but also enhanced the wine-growing traditions of the region. Their forward-thinking strategies include sustainable practices and a deep respect for the natural environment, ensuring that the wines produced are not only of the highest quality but also environmentally responsible.
Their innovative methods and commitment to excellence have positioned Domäne Wachau as a pioneer in the wine industry. The cooperative’s wines are now recognized as a benchmark for quality, with each bottle encapsulating the essence of the Wachau terroir. This recognition from Falstaff is a testament to the dedication and skill that Horvath, Frischengruber, and the entire team at Domäne Wachau bring to their craft.