Bernhard Ott is one of Austria’s most influential winemakers, often referred to as “Mr. Veltliner” for his dedication to Grüner Veltliner and his pioneering work in biodynamic viticulture.

Wine is never just a beverage; it is a story of land, people, and tradition. For Bernard Ott whose heritage stretches across central Europe, the journey is about transmitting terroir and passion directly to the glass. He is a great believer in this vision as he explains, “My story begins with the deep roots of my ancestors in the Danube region, where a love for wine was laid in the cradle. I see myself as a winemaker — a transmitter of unique terroir and passion, bringing both to my customers.”

Grüner Veltliner: tradition over trends

Grüner Veltliner has enjoyed international acclaim in recent decades, but for this producer, global market trends have never dictated the work in the vineyard. Ott says, “The international development of Veltliner has never influenced my decisions – my focus has always been to capture the essence of our terroir and the spirit of the people behind it in every bottle.”

I see myself as a winemaker — a transmitter of unique terroir and passion, bringing both to my customers.

The philosophy is clear: respect for tradition, hand harvesting, biodynamic cultivation, and minimal intervention in the cellar. This approach underscores a belief that Grüner Veltliner belongs among the world’s great white wines, particularly when grown in regions where nature provides the perfect conditions.

At the same time, the winemaker warns of a future where “technical wines” — produced through machine harvesting and standardised methods — may increasingly be sold on price rather than quality. Even Grüner Veltliner, he notes, will not be immune to this shift.

Adapting to Climate and Financial Realities

Climate change is reshaping vineyards across Europe, but this estate has been preparing for decades. Compost use, biodynamic farming since 2006, and dry cultivation without irrigation have created resilient vines and soils. Ott believes that “both the vines and the soils are extremely vital and able to cope effortlessly with the challenges of climate change.”

In the cellar, efficiency and precision ensure that harvests are processed quickly and without compromise. Financially, the estate’s long-term perspective — valuing terroir, employees, and generational know-how — has provided stability even in uncertain times. This consistency has earned the trust of wine lovers, and paradoxically, the changing climate now offers certain advantages to those who have invested in resilience.

The sommelier, much like the winemaker who serves as a link between terroir, nature, and wine, plays a key role in bridging the emotions of the vintner, professional expertise

Hospitality and Connection

For this winemaker hospitality is not an afterthought but an essential part of the estate’s identity. Visitors are encouraged to experience tastings and vineyard tours, forging deeper connections with the land and the family behind the wine. “This allows our guests and customers to connect even more deeply with the winery,” reveals Ott, “often turning them into lifelong friends of our family.”

He continues, “The sommelier, much like the winemaker who serves as a link between terroir, nature, and wine, plays a key role in bridging the emotions of the vintner, professional expertise, and the art of exceptional food pairings — creating happiness for the wine lover, the guest, and the connoisseur alike.”

Through careful selection and deep knowledge, sommeliers unite the emotion of the winemaker with the creativity of the kitchen, elevating the dining experience and ensuring that wines like Grüner Veltliner are appreciated in their fullest context.