GRAPEVINE WINE BROKERS

FEATURED PRODUCER

Pichler-Krutzler

Sudburgenland, Austria

When Elizabeth Pichler 
and Erich Krutzler Decided to Start

their own eponymous winery in 2007, their search for property focused on Erich’s homeland of Sudburgenland. A last minute real estate hiccup and subsequent intervention by none other than Elizabeth’s father, Franz Xavier Pichler (yes, that FX Pichler..) led them to reconsider and embrace the opportunities in front of them in the Wachau. However, the choice to set up shop in such a lauded region, literally presided over by their father/father-in-law was not without a bit of drama. Perhaps influenced by his background in Burgenland, where he made a name for himself making standout Blaufrankish, Erich bucked the system from the start. He adamantly opposed joining the Vinea Wachau. A highly regarded association of Wachau winemakers (led by the Pichlers!) that developed the Codex Wachau-mandating production standards and alcohol levels under the Steinfeder, Federspiel, Smaragd designations. His belief in minimal intervention and a commitment to trusting nature to guide the process, on a plot by plot basis, inform his production decisions then and now.

Speaking to Erich today, his views are just a strong as they were in the beginning… focus should be on acidity not ripeness. While he respects the arguments for standardization, he refuses to compromise, especially under the acute challenges of a changing climate. This steadfastness has worked in his favor. Vintage to vintage his wines are highly reviewed and have been described by James Suckling as, “extravagant and exotic but also beautifully balanced.” Organic farming, a smattering of stem inclusion and skin contact, judicious use of burgundy barrels and extended lees contact are all hallmarks of the PK portfolio.

2024 is an exciting year for the Pichler-Krutzlers! After years of renting rustic winery space, renovations will be complete on an historic property in the tiny, medieval hamlet of Rothenhof; a stones throw from the Danube and directly below Erich’s beloved Pfaffenberg vineyard. The new winery space, visitor center and family home will allow Elizabeth and Erich to truly showcase their version of the Wachau.

We take great pride in representing the wines of Pichler-Krutzler to the California market. Not only are they delicious, but we see immense opportunity in them. Already a fixture on some of the most prestigious lists across the country, we have confidence that once in the glass, the wine won’t be easily forgotten.

"Pichler-Krutzler wines are pure,
unadulterated and uncompromising"

– Falstaff 24/25

* DISCLAIMER: All Pichler-Krutzler photography used in this site is property of Pichler-Krutzler.