Südsteiermark is renowned for its steep vineyard slopes, cool climate, and diverse soils, all of which contribute to the distinctive character of its wines. The region’s proximity to the Alps brings cool nights that preserve acidity in the grapes, while warm days during the growing season allow for full ripening. This combination of factors creates wines that are both fresh and aromatic, with a signature minerality that reflects the region’s limestone and gravel soils. The vineyards of Lackner Tinnacher, located on some of Südsteiermark’s best slopes, benefit from these ideal growing conditions.

Katharina Tinnacher, the current generation in charge of the estate, has brought a modern and thoughtful approach to winemaking while maintaining the traditions of the family. She is committed to organic farming, ensuring that the vineyards are healthy and that the grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness. By minimizing the use of chemicals and promoting biodiversity, Tinnacher ensures that her wines are a true reflection of the vineyard’s ecosystem.

Sauvignon Blanc is the flagship grape of Lackner Tinnacher, and the winery produces some of the most highly regarded examples in Südsteiermark. Known for their aromatic intensity and vibrant acidity, these wines are a pure expression of the region’s cool climate and unique soils. Lackner Tinnacher’s Sauvignon Blancs are characterized by their precision and elegance, often showing notes of citrus, green apple, and subtle herbaceousness, with a mineral-driven finish that reflects the limestone-rich terroir. These wines are fresh and lively in their youth but have the structure and complexity to develop beautifully with age.

In addition to Sauvignon Blanc, Lackner Tinnacher is also known for its Morillon, the local name for Chardonnay in Styria. Morillon from this region tends to be more restrained and mineral-focused than in other parts of the world, and Lackner Tinnacher’s versions are no exception. The wines are typically fermented in stainless steel or large neutral oak barrels to preserve their purity and freshness. They are marked by their crisp acidity, subtle fruit flavors, and a distinct stony minerality that speaks to the vineyard’s terroir. These are elegant, understated wines with a focus on balance and finesse.

Welschriesling also plays an important role at Lackner Tinnacher, with the winery producing refined, expressive examples of this noble variety. The Welschrieslings from Südsteiermark are known for their vibrant acidity and intense fruit character, often showing aromas of peach, apricot, and citrus, along with a racy minerality. Lackner Tinnacher’s Rieslings are precise and linear, with a long, refreshing finish. They are built to age, developing even greater complexity and depth over time.

One of the defining aspects of Lackner Tinnacher’s winemaking is the emphasis on minimal intervention in the cellar. Katharina Tinnacher believes in letting the wines express themselves naturally, without excessive manipulation. Fermentations are spontaneous, relying on indigenous yeasts, and the wines are allowed to mature slowly, often spending extended time on the lees to develop texture and complexity. This hands-off approach ensures that the wines retain their purity and reflect the unique character of each vineyard site.

Lackner Tinnacher’s commitment to quality and sustainability has earned the winery numerous accolades over the years. Their wines are highly regarded both in Austria and internationally, recognized for their elegance, precision, and sense of place. The winery’s focus on organic farming and minimal intervention has also made it a leader in sustainable viticulture in the region, inspiring other producers to follow suit.

Katharina Tinnacher’s philosophy is deeply rooted in respect for nature and a desire to create wines that are a true expression of their origin. By working closely with the rhythms of the vineyard and allowing the wines to develop naturally, she produces wines that are both authentic and reflective of the unique terroir of Südsteiermark. Her approach combines tradition with innovation, ensuring that Lackner Tinnacher continues to produce wines of exceptional quality while staying true to its family heritage.

The winery’s picturesque setting, with its terraced vineyards overlooking the rolling hills of Styria, adds to the allure of Lackner Tinnacher. Visitors to the estate can experience the beauty of the vineyards firsthand, as well as taste the wines that so clearly reflect the land from which they come. Whether it’s the aromatic Sauvignon Blanc, the elegant Morillon, or the vibrant Riesling, each wine from Lackner Tinnacher tells the story of this special corner of Austria.

In recent years, Lackner Tinnacher has continued to push the boundaries of quality and sustainability, solidifying its place as one of Austria’s top wineries. The estate’s wines are a must-try for anyone looking to explore the best of what Südsteiermark has to offer, and they provide a beautiful example of how thoughtful, organic farming and careful winemaking can produce wines of extraordinary character and elegance.