Kamptal is one of 8 “sub-areas” in the greater wine region known as Lower Austria (Niederosterreich). The other 7 are Kremstal, Danubelands, Traisental, Carnuntum, Weinvertel, Thermenregion, and perhaps the most famous, the Wachau.
With about 9250 acres of primary rock, loess and clay soils, the area takes its name from the river that runs through it: the Kamp. At the center of the area is the town of Langenlois, which holds the distinction of being Austria’s largest wine town. Located here is the
Ursin Haus, which offers information as well as almost 300 wines, spirits, and sparkling wines for tasting. Also here is the incredible wine museum and hotel,
Loisium, which is probably worth a trip in itself.
Geographically, the Kamptal area is dominated by the Zobinger Heiligenstein, or “Hell Rock”, a mountain so named because it is where the sun “burns like hell”, according to the Zwettl abbey register, which first mentioned this future vacation destination back in 1280. Very old vine Rieslings and Gruner Veltliners (and we mean old: this area has, after all, been populated since the Stone Age) take advantage of the climatic situation by basking in the heat of the hillsides during the day, and then getting cooled down by the river breezes at night. The resulting wines are distinctive for their peppery character, fine acidity, and pronounced minerality.
