Discover Vienna’s Sparkling Secret: An Unforgettable Wine Tasting at Schlumberger Cellars

Beyond its imperial grandeur and classical melodies, Vienna holds a sparkling secret that delights wine lovers from around the globe. If you’re wondering where to go for an authentic, fun, and truly delicious wine tasting in Vienna, look no further than the historic Schlumberger Wine Cellar. Our recent trip to this magnificent city unveiled this gem as one of our absolute favorite activities, and we are thrilled to share every detail of our unforgettable experience with you!

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Wine Tasting in Vienna at Schlumberger Wine Cellar: A Journey into Austrian Sparkling Wine

When we embarked on planning our Viennese adventure, our itinerary was a blend of historical sights, classical concerts, and, crucially, an exploration of the city’s vibrant food and wine culture. Beyond iconic experiences like a horse-drawn carriage ride in Vienna and discovering the finest cafes the city has to offer, we were determined to find the absolute best wine tasting and cellar tour. And we did!

Austria boasts a remarkably rich wine heritage, with the unique distinction of having vineyards even within its capital city limits. This means a visit to a traditional Viennese Heuriger – a cozy, local wine tavern – should absolutely be on your list of things to do in Vienna. However, for an unparalleled experience delving into the world of sparkling wine, the Schlumberger Wine Cellar truly stands out.

Imagine descending into cool, atmospheric cellars, surrounded by thousands of bottles, each telling a story of tradition and craftsmanship. This is precisely what awaits you at Schlumberger. It’s not just a tasting; it’s an immersive journey into the heart of Austrian sparkling wine production, a delightful detour from the bustling city streets above.

Secure your spot: Book your Schlumberger Wine Cellar Tour and Sparkling Wine Tasting in Vienna today!

The Enchanting History of Schlumberger Wines

Every great wine has a captivating story, and Schlumberger’s is no exception. It all began in 1842, rooted in a beautiful love story—a theme we always adore! German-born Alwin Schlumberger’s journey to Austria was sparked by his affection for his Austrian wife, Sophie Kirchner. Upon moving, he brought with him a wealth of knowledge and a revolutionary vision.

Alwin wasn’t just any aspiring winemaker; he had received rigorous training in Champagne production at the illustrious Ruinart domain in France. Armed with this expertise, he decided to pioneer sparkling wine production in Austria. After carefully touring various wine regions across the country, he settled on Bad Vöslau, a picturesque area approximately a 40-minute drive from Vienna, to establish his groundbreaking winery.

From its inception, Schlumberger wines quickly ascended to prominence, becoming the preferred choice for the Imperial aristocracy and the sophisticated Austrian society throughout the 1800s. When you raise a glass of Schlumberger today, you’re not just enjoying a superb beverage; you’re partaking in a tradition that has graced the most elegant tables for nearly two centuries. It’s a taste of history, a sip of nobility.

Experience this rich history firsthand: Book your Schlumberger Wine Cellar Tour and Sparkling Wine Tasting in Vienna!

Exploring The Schlumberger Wine Cellar in Vienna

Stepping into the Schlumberger wine cellars is an experience unto itself. They are nothing short of breathtaking – a harmonious blend of chic design and historical gravitas. The lighting is meticulously curated, casting a warm, inviting glow that highlights the ancient brickwork and rows upon rows of aging bottles. This creates a fantastic ambiance, contributing to a truly comfortable, safe, and utterly enjoyable visit.

Many consider wine tasting at the Schlumberger Wine Cellar one of the most romantic things to do in Vienna, and it’s easy to see why. The dim lighting, the quiet hum of history, and the shared anticipation of exquisite tastes create a truly intimate setting.

The entire visit is thoughtfully organized for you to explore at your own leisure. Upon arrival, you’ll receive a comprehensive audio guide, available in multiple languages, which becomes your personal storyteller. This innovative approach allows you to navigate the cellars independently, absorbing every detail about wine production – step-by-step, from the initial grape harvest to the final celebratory sip – all at your preferred pace. It’s a journey of discovery, tailored just for you.

Begin your self-guided adventure: Book your Schlumberger Wine Cellar Tour and Sparkling Wine Tasting in Vienna!

Unveiling the Secrets: The Schlumberger Wine Cellar Tour

The Schlumberger wine cellar tour is a captivating journey through time, guiding you through the fascinating history of the Schlumberger wine house as you traverse the magnificent underground cellars. This approximately 45-minute self-guided experience is designed to educate and enchant, detailing the entire production process of their renowned sparkling wines.

As you stroll through the cool, dimly lit passages, you’ll witness wine bottles at various critical stages of production. From the initial fermentation to the intricate process of riddling and disgorgement, each step is brought to life. The visual displays are expertly laid out, making complex winemaking techniques easily understandable and engaging, perfectly complementing the rich information provided by your audio guide.

While we won’t reveal all the intricate details of sparkling wine production here – because we want you to discover them firsthand during the tour – rest assured, it’s a truly fascinating process. The clarity and beauty with which the information is presented, combined with the atmospheric setting, make for an unforgettable educational experience. You’ll gain a profound appreciation for the dedication and artistry that goes into every bottle of Schlumberger sparkling wine.

Don’t miss out on this enlightening experience: Book your Schlumberger Wine Cellar Tour and Sparkling Wine Tasting in Vienna!

The Magic of Schlumberger Sparkling Wine

Schlumberger sparkling wines are crafted with meticulous care, employing what is now known as the “Méthode Traditionnelle” – a process identical to the revered Champagne production method, but with Alwin Schlumberger’s unique adaptations and Austrian terroir. This commitment to traditional methods ensures a product of exceptional quality and distinct character.

It’s fascinating to note that Alwin Schlumberger was a true pioneer, being the first to successfully plant and cultivate grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in Austria. These very grapes now form the basis of their exquisite red wines, “Privatissimo” and “Privatkeller,” which are still available today, showcasing the enduring legacy of his vision.

Historically, Schlumberger’s sparkling wines were indeed referred to as “Champagne.” However, following the Treaty of Saint-Germain in 1919, strict regulations were enforced, decreeing that only sparkling wines produced entirely from grapes grown in the Champagne region of France could bear that prestigious name. From that point on, Schlumberger wines proudly became known as “sparkling wines made using the Methode Champenoise” (or Méthode Traditionnelle), a testament to their unwavering dedication to quality and traditional craftsmanship, regardless of geographical designation.

Again, we want to preserve some of the magic for your actual tour, so we won’t reveal every secret of this intricate process. However, the captivating journey through the cellar will unveil the steps that transform humble grapes into effervescent masterpieces, culminating in the elegant sparkling wines that Schlumberger is famous for. Below are just a few glimpses to pique your curiosity!

Dive into the world of sparkling wine: Book your Schlumberger Wine Cellar Tour and Sparkling Wine Tasting in Vienna!

Indulge in the Rosé Schlumberger Wine Tasting

And now, the moment everyone eagerly anticipates: the wine tasting! As avid enthusiasts of fine wines, we’ve had the pleasure of participating in numerous wine tastings and tours, from our home base in France to exotic destinations across the globe (we even went wine tasting in Myanmar during our honeymoon in 2015!). Each experience offers a unique perspective on local culture and craftsmanship.

Ready for your tasting? Book your Schlumberger Wine Cellar Tour and Sparkling Wine Tasting in Vienna now!

The Rosé Tour at Schlumberger was a particular delight. We savored a selection of crisp, elegant sparkling Rosés, each with its own subtle nuances and vibrant character, alongside a wonderfully refreshing white sparkling wine. The delicate bubbles, the aromatic profiles, and the sheer quality of each sip made for a truly memorable sensory experience.

After your fascinating tour, you’ll be welcomed into a beautifully appointed tasting area. This stylish space, perfectly designed for relaxation and enjoyment, offers comfortable seating where you can truly savour each glass. It’s the ideal spot to reflect on the history and craftsmanship you’ve just learned about, all while enjoying the fruits of Schlumberger’s labor.

Diverse Schlumberger Wine Tasting Options

Schlumberger offers a range of fantastic wine tasting options, ensuring there’s a perfect experience for every palate, whether you’re a casual sipper or a dedicated connoisseur. Each tasting package thoughtfully includes the self-guided audio tour, allowing you to immerse yourself in the production process before delighting your taste buds. Here’s a breakdown of the choices:

Tour Options

• Sparkling Tour: This introductory tour is perfect for those looking for a classic taste of Schlumberger. It includes one refreshing glass of Schlumberger’s famous white sparkling wine, the elegant Schlumberger Sparkling Brut.
• Classic Tour: If you’re eager to explore a broader spectrum of flavors, the Classic Tour offers three exquisite glasses of Schlumberger’s sparkling wine. This selection typically includes two crisp white varieties and one delicate rosé, featuring Sparkling Brut, Gruner Veltliner, and Rosé Brut.
• Rosé Tour: This is the tour we thoroughly enjoyed! It allows you to delve into the vibrant world of Schlumberger’s rosé sparkling wines. You’ll sample three full glasses, showcasing the delightful Rosé Brut Klassik, the sophisticated Pinot Noir Brut Reserve, and the refreshing Rosé Secco.
• Connaisseur Tour: For the true wine aficionado, the Connaisseur Tour provides a deeper, more refined tasting experience. This option includes three premium glasses of Schlumberger’s sparkling wine, featuring two exceptional white varieties and one distinguished rosé: Schlumberger Sparkling Brut, Pinot Noir Brut Reserve, and the opulent Chardonnay Brut Reserve.

The Schlumberger Boutique: A Taste of Vienna to Take Home

After your enlightening tour and delightful tasting, your journey through Schlumberger culminates in their charming boutique. Here, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to browse and purchase a carefully curated selection of sparkling Schlumberger wines, allowing you to bring a piece of your Viennese experience home with you.

During our visit, we absolutely fell in love with the Rosé Brut Klassik, which quickly became our favorite sparkling rosé from the tasting. Naturally, we couldn’t resist buying a bottle to cherish. We find immense joy in bringing wine home from our travels, uncorking it months later, and reliving our adventures with every sip. A beautiful bottle of local wine serves as a fantastic souvenir, a thoughtful gift, or a wonderful way to commemorate special memories.

Transporting wine is often simpler than you might think. If you’re exploring Europe by train or car, as we often do, bringing home a few bottles is a breeze. For those traveling by air, don’t fret! It’s easy to pack one or two bottles safely in your checked luggage. We recommend purchasing some bubble wrap – readily available at most post offices or stationery stores across Europe – and wrapping each bottle with at least 2-3 layers. Always remember to pack it securely within your checked baggage. If you’re traveling with carry-on luggage only, consider inquiring about shipping services offered directly from the boutique to have your chosen bottles sent safely to your home address.

Discover your favorite and take it home: Book your Schlumberger Wine Cellar Tour and Sparkling Wine Tasting in Vienna!

How to Reach the Schlumberger Wine Cellars in Vienna

Getting to the Schlumberger wine cellars from central Vienna is remarkably straightforward and convenient, thanks to Vienna’s excellent public transport network. You have several efficient options to choose from:

• By Metro (U-Bahn): The quickest way is often by metro. Take either the U4 (green line) or U6 (brown line) to the Spittelau station. Once you exit the station, the Schlumberger Wine Cellar is just a short walk across the street, easily visible and accessible.
• By Tram: If you prefer the tram, take Line D and alight at the Spittelau stop. This offers a scenic route through parts of the city.
• By Bus: Bus users can take Line 37A to the Spittelau stop, which is also very close to the cellars.
• By Hop On / Hop Off Bus: For visitors using a Hop On / Hop Off bus service, the Schlumberger Wine Cellar is a designated stop! Look for the Schlumberger / Spittelau stop on the Green Line. This is a hassle-free option that combines sightseeing with your wine experience.
• Walking: While we often choose to walk everywhere when we travel to truly soak in the city, the walk from St. Stephen’s Cathedral in the city center takes about an hour. It’s a pleasant stroll if you have ample time and enjoy exploring on foot, but we opted for public transport on our visit to maximize our time.

No matter your preferred mode of transport, reaching Schlumberger is simple, allowing you to focus on the exciting experience ahead.

Plan your visit today: Book your Schlumberger Wine Cellar Tour and Sparkling Wine Tasting in Vienna!

A heartfelt thank you to the Schlumberger team for making our rosé wine tasting dreams come true! We were privileged guests of Schlumberger for this wine cellar tour and rosé tasting, and all opinions expressed are genuinely our own.

Where to Stay in Vienna: Our Top Picks

To fully immerse yourself in the charm and history of Vienna, choosing the right accommodation is key. Here are some highly recommended hotels, catering to various tastes and budgets, that offer excellent access to the city’s attractions, including the Schlumberger Wine Cellar:

• Hotel Sacher – An icon of Viennese hospitality, this luxurious hotel is home to the world-famous Sacher Cafe, birthplace of the original Sacher Torte. It’s also perfectly situated directly across the street from the magnificent Vienna State Opera House, offering an unparalleled location for cultural enthusiasts.
• Hotel Imperial – Experience imperial grandeur at this stunning, historically significant hotel. Located right on the Ringstrasse, it offers easy access to many of Vienna’s most famous landmarks and offers a truly opulent stay steeped in tradition.
• 25 Hours Hotel Vienna – For a more contemporary and vibrant experience without compromising on location or quality, the 25 Hours Hotel is an excellent choice. It offers unique design, a lively atmosphere, and is well-situated near several interesting museums and cultural hotspots.

Must-Book Activities in Vienna to Enhance Your Trip

Vienna is a city brimming with incredible experiences. To make the most of your visit, especially during peak seasons, we highly recommend booking these popular activities in advance:

• Belvedere Palace – Pre-book your tickets to witness the largest collection of Gustav Klimt’s masterpieces in the world, including his iconic “The Kiss.” A cultural highlight not to be missed.
• Schönbrunn Palace – No trip to Vienna is complete without exploring the breathtaking majesty of Schönbrunn Palace, the former imperial summer residence. Booking ahead saves time and guarantees entry.
• Vivaldi’s Four Seasons Concert in Karlskirche – Immerse yourself in Vienna’s classical music heritage with a spellbinding performance of Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons” in the stunning Baroque setting of Karlskirche.
• Light of Creation Votive Church Immersive Light Show – We absolutely adored this captivating light and sound performance inside the gorgeous Votive Church. It’s a truly unique and modern cultural experience.
• Spanish Riding School Training Practice – One of our most cherished experiences was observing the elegant Lipizzaner horses during their morning training sessions. Witness their incredible grace and discipline up close.
• Spanish Riding School Performance – If your schedule allows, catching a full performance of these magnificent horses and their riders is an unforgettable spectacle of equestrian art.
• Kunsthistorisches Museum – Explore one of Vienna’s premier museums, home to an immense collection of art, and don’t forget to seek out the secret Klimt paintings adorning the grand staircase.
• Schlumberger Sparkling Wine Tasting – And of course, don’t miss the opportunity to learn about, and taste, some of Austria’s finest local sparkling wine at Schlumberger!
• Riding Dinner Sacher Experience – Read all about our delightful experience tasting Sacher Torte and Sacher Cuvée sparkling wine while enjoying a beautiful horse-drawn carriage ride through the city.

Dive Deeper into Vienna: More Reads

Looking for more inspiration and practical tips for your Vienna trip? Explore our other detailed guides to help you plan an unforgettable visit:

• See our curated list of the most romantic things to do in Vienna for couples and dreamers.
• Discover essential culinary delights in our comprehensive Vienna Food Guide – a must-read for foodies!
• Read our honest Light of Creation Vienna review for insights into this unique immersive experience.
• Relive our delightful experience in the best horse-drawn carriage ride Vienna has to offer.
• Uncover the secrets of the best cakes in Vienna you simply must try during your visit!

Wine Tasting in Vienna (Cheers! To Your Adventure)

We sincerely hope that our detailed account inspires you to embark on your own wine tasting experience in Vienna at the magnificent Schlumberger Wine Cellar. It was undeniably one of the highlights of our recent visit to this enchanting city, offering a perfect blend of history, education, and pure enjoyment. We are confident that you will have an equally amazing time, creating fabulous memories that will last long after the last sip. So, raise a glass and say “Prost!” to an unforgettable Viennese adventure!

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