(AWM - July 2002) - The Fifth Masters of Wine Symposium in Vienna gave international experts an opportunity of studying Austrian wines. Brief Interviews with participants were held to document their professional opinion. The result was very encouraging for Austrian wine, and excerpts from conversations with wine VIPs Jancis Robinson MW and Tim Atkin MW may stand for many. The quality and individuality of Austrian wines was praised repeatedly, while wines in the middle to upper segment were given the best chances on the international market.

Future only at the Top
Austria fan Tim Atkin MW, editor of "Harper's", the oldest and also the most modern wine magazine, and columnist of the British "Observer", reinforced this message. "Austrian wines must position themselves at the very top. Austria has the quality and a very strong identity. Just think Grüner Veltliner! Austria's white wines are consumer friendly, have more body, and simply offer more than, for instance, German wines. They are also much better than most Italian white wines. I adore Italy's red wines, but the whites bore me."

"The Wine World in Red and White"
The organization of the Fifth Symposium of Masters of Wine in Vienna was singled out for praise from the very beginning. After numerous talks, lunches, tastings and dinners as well as a Vienna gala at the city hall, the atmosphere was generally enthusiastic. "The true importance of this success will become apparent gradually," thinks Michael Thurner, Managing Director of the Austrian Wine Marketing Board. "The international guests of the Symposium hold key positions in wine trade, media, and education. They will pass on their knowledge about Austrian wines."

Press Release
AWM/July 02
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