Exploring the Wachau cultural landscape.

I first discovered the stunning Wachau landscape along the Danube River on my initial journey through UNESCO-listed wine and spirits regions in Europe. The defining geomorphological feature here is the Danube Valley, stretching approximately 33 km between Melk and Krems. The river has carved its way through the Bohemian Massif, creating a landscape like no other. The slopes are steep, often punctuated by rocky outcrops, and mainly composed of resilient metamorphic rocks such as gneiss, granulite, amphibolite, and marble.?

On the gentler slopes, terraced vineyards were built, which have become an essential element of the Wachau’s cultural landscape. In the alluvial plains, the wider sections of the valley reveal gravel, sand, loess, and clay deposits formed during the Tertiary period and the Ice Age. Loess soils here are fertile, making them ideal for viticulture and fruit farming.?

This combination of unique landforms has earned the Wachau its UNESCO World Heritage status, recognized for its aesthetic, cultural, and geological value. Wachau is celebrated for its high-quality white wines, especially Grüner Veltliner and Riesling. The region enjoys a unique terroir and maintains traditional winemaking practices, resulting in distinctive, internationally renowned wines. The Wachau DAC (Districtus Austriae Controllatus) designation was introduced in 2020, further distinguishing the region. The main white grape varieties include Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Neuburger, Muskateller, Sauvignon Blanc, Traminer, Frühroter Veltliner, Müller-Thurgau, Muskat-Ottonel, and Roter Veltliner. The red varieties are Pinot Noir, St. Laurent, and Zweigelt.

The Schnaps

The Wachau region, nestled along the Danube River, is celebrated not only for its terraced vineyards but also for its rich biodiversity, including a variety of fruit crops that flourish in the fertile loess soils of the valley. Although spirits are not a primary product here, the spirits are commonly enjoyed as a digestive after meals or at celebrations. In Austrian and German culture, Schnaps is valued for its intense flavour and its ability to stimulate the appetite. Wachau is particularly known for its Marillenschnaps a highly regarded apricot-based spirit that showcases the quality and richness of local apricots. This iconic spirit, made from carefully selected apricots, highlights the Wachau's commitment to traditional practices and its abundant fruit diversity.

Alongside Marillenschnaps, other Schnaps varieties are crafted from apples, pears, and plums, each bringing unique flavors and aromas that mirror the terroir and natural diversity of the region. By using these local fruits in its spirits, Wachau not only preserves its cultural heritage but also promotes biodiversity through sustainable agricultural practices.

Definitions

"Schnaps" refers to a type of strong spirit or liquor typically distilled in Central European countries like Austria and Germany. It’s a general term for distilled spirits made from various fruits, grains, or even herbs and is known for its high alcohol content, usually around 40% ABV or higher. The production process involves fermenting fruits (such as apples, pears, or plums) or grains, followed by distillation, often using a double distillation method to concentrate flavours and increase alcohol purity.?It is not an official category in the European laws.

Local fruits and distillates: Rakia versus Schnaps

What is the difference between Rakia and Schnaps?

While both Rakia and Schnaps are types of fruit brandies, there are some key differences between them:

1. Origin:

- Rakia: Primarily associated with Balkan countries like Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Albania.

- Schnaps: Originated in German-speaking countries like Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

2. Production method:

- Rakia: Usually made by fermenting and distilling whole fruits.

- Schnaps: Can be made by distilling fermented fruit mash (Obstler) or by flavoring neutral spirits with fruit or herbs (liqueur-style).

3. Fruit varieties:

- Rakia: Commonly made from plums, grapes, apricots, pears, and other fruits.

- Schnaps: Often made from apples, pears, plums, cherries, and berries.

4. Alcohol content:

- Rakia: Typically 40% ABV, but homemade versions can be stronger (50-80% ABV).

- Schnaps: Usually 30-40% ABV for traditional fruit brandies, but flavored varieties can be lower.

5. Flavour profile:

- Rakia: Generally has a strong, fruity flavor and is often consumed neat.

- Schnaps: Can range from dry fruit brandies to sweet, flavored liqueurs.

6. Cultural significance:

- Rakia: Deeply ingrained in Balkan culture, often homemade and shared socially.

- Schnaps: Important in German-speaking cultures, but with a wider variety of commercial products.

7. Serving style:

- Rakia: Often served at room temperature in small glasses.

- Schnaps: Can be served chilled, especially flavored varieties, and is sometimes used in cocktails.

While there are similarities between Rakia and Schnaps, their distinct cultural origins and production methods set them apart as unique spirits within their respective regions.

Final comments

Follow me for more information about the emblematic landscapes in Europe and the iconic wines and distillates. Soon, I am going to share you my comments about the last masterclass on Rakia given in the CMB competition 2024 and also with extra distinctions .

Let me know your favourite production places visited the last holidays!

Ana Valenzuela-Zapata