Austria offers a wide variety of drinks that cater to all tastes. This guide takes you through the best of Austria’s beverages, including strong spirits, world-class beers, wines and cocktails, as well as unique non-alcoholic options like herbal lemonades, and comforting hot drinks. Whether you love a good glass of wine, a strong spirit, or a refreshing non-alcoholic drink, there’s something in Austria for everyone.
1. Austrian Spirits
1.1. Liquor from Austria
1) Inländerrum
- Traditional Austrian rum.
Inländerrum, a distinct Austrian spirit, stands out with its rich, spicy flavor profile. It’s a rum variety unique to Austria, often used in baking and cocktails. Its robust taste and versatile nature make it a favorite for both culinary and beverage applications, offering a true taste of Austrian tradition.
2) Obstler
- Fruit brandy.
Obstler, a staple in Austrian spirit culture, is a fruit brandy typically made from apples and pears. Its smooth, fruity taste captures the essence of Austrian orchards. This versatile spirit is beloved for its pure, natural flavor, making it an essential component of Austria’s spirited tradition.
3) Kirschwasser
- Cherry brandy.
Kirschwasser, literally “cherry water” in German, is a clear, potent cherry brandy originating from Austria. Distilled from Morello cherries, this spirit is notable for its intense cherry aroma and subtly sweet, yet tart flavor. A staple in Austrian bars, it’s often enjoyed neat and is a key ingredient in traditional desserts and fondue recipes, showcasing the rich fruit heritage of Austria.
4) Marillenschnaps
- Apricot schnapps.
Marillenschnaps is a celebrated Austrian apricot schnapps, renowned for its sweet, rich flavor. Distilled from the finest apricots, it embodies Austria’s love for fruit spirits. Its popularity extends beyond borders, symbolizing Austrian expertise in fruit distillation and a taste that’s cherished worldwide.
5) Williamsbirne
- Pear brandy.
Williamsbirne, or Williams pear brandy, is a premium spirit distilled from the Williams pear, known for its exceptional fragrance and sweetness. This spirit is a fine representation of Austrian craftsmanship in fruit distillation, offering a crisp, clean taste with a strong pear aroma. It’s a favorite in Austria for its elegance and purity of flavor, often served as a sophisticated digestif or used to enhance the flavor of culinary creations.
6) Austrian Vodka
- High-quality Austrian vodkas.
Premium vodkas like Reisetbauer Qualitätsvodka showcase Austria’s excellence in vodka production. These vodkas are known for their exceptional purity and smoothness. Crafted with meticulous care, they represent Austria’s commitment to quality and innovation in spirit distillation, offering a sophisticated and refined vodka experience.
1.2. Liqueurs from Austria
7) Almdudler
- Herbal liqueur from Austria.
Almdudler Herbal Liqueur is a unique Austrian creation, blending over 32 alpine herbs. This liqueur, with its refreshing and mildly sweet profile, is deeply rooted in Austrian tradition. It’s often enjoyed as an aperitif or a mixer, embodying the alpine freshness and herbal richness of the Austrian landscape.
8) Mozart
- Austrian chocolate liqueur.
Mozart Chocolate Liqueur, a true Austrian indulgence, combines fine chocolate with distilled spirits. Originating from Salzburg, it’s crafted using a blend of dark and milk chocolates, resulting in a rich, creamy texture. This liqueur is a testament to Austria’s craftsmanship in marrying the luxurious taste of chocolate with the finesse of spirit-making.
9) Goldwasser
- Gold-flaked herbal liqueur.
Goldwasser is an iconic Austrian liqueur, distinguished by real gold flakes suspended within. It’s not only visually stunning but also rich in flavor, with a blend of herbs and spices. This liqueur, often enjoyed as a digestif, symbolizes Austrian luxury and has a historical legacy that adds to its allure and prestige.
10) Rossbacher
- Digestive herbal liqueur.
Rossbacher is a renowned Austrian digestive herbal liqueur. It’s crafted from a secret blend of herbs and roots, known for its medicinal properties. This liqueur is typically consumed after meals, offering a smooth, bittersweet taste that aids in digestion and provides a quintessential Austrian herbal experience.
11) Gurktaler Alpenkräuter
- Alpine herb liqueur.
Gurktaler Alpenkräuter is a celebrated Austrian herbal liqueur, known for its blend of alpine herbs. Distilled in the Gurk Valley, it’s famed for its natural, refreshing taste and therapeutic qualities. This liqueur is a staple in Austrian households, often used as a remedy as well as a delightful drink, showcasing Austria’s deep connection with its alpine flora.
1.3. Other spirits from Austria
12) Zirbenschnaps
- Pine-flavored schnapps.
Zirbenschnaps, a quintessentially Austrian spirit, is infused with pine cones from the alpine Zirben tree. It’s celebrated for its woody, resinous flavor and soothing aroma. This schnapps is not just a drink, but a cultural icon, offering a unique taste of the alpine wilderness that is central to Austria’s natural heritage.
13) Vogelbeerbrand
- Rowan berry brandy.
Vogelbeerbrand is a unique Austrian brandy distilled from rowan berries. Known for its strong, fruity aroma and sharp, slightly bitter taste, it embodies the essence of Austrian forestry. This spirit is highly regarded for its complex flavor profile, making it a connoisseur’s choice for a truly Austrian experience.
14) Himbeergeist
- Raspberry distillate.
Himbeergeist, translating to “raspberry spirit,” is a fragrant, clear spirit made by distilling raspberries. Cherished for its intense raspberry aroma and light, fruity taste, it is a popular choice in Austria for sipping neat or as a base in sophisticated cocktails. This spirit highlights Austria’s proficiency in creating refined fruit-based spirits that capture the essence of fresh, local produce.
15) Nussschnaps
- Nut-flavored spirit.
Nussschnaps is an Austrian schnapps made from nuts, usually walnuts or hazelnuts. This rich, aromatic spirit is celebrated for its warm, nutty flavor and velvety texture. It is a testament to Austria’s innovation in spirit production, offering a unique and comforting taste that pairs well with desserts and is also enjoyed as a soothing digestif.
16) Enzian
- Gentian root spirit.
Enzian, a distinct spirit made from gentian roots, is a hallmark of Austrian distillation. This bitter spirit is revered for its digestive properties and unique earthy flavor. Often consumed as a digestif, Enzian reflects Austria’s long-standing tradition of herbal and medicinal spirits, offering a taste deeply rooted in the alpine terroir.
2. Austrian Cocktails & Mixed Drinks (Alcoholic)
2.1. Cocktails & Mixed Drinks from Austria
17) Spritzer
- White wine with sparkling water.
The Spritzer, a simple yet beloved Austrian drink, combines white wine with sparkling water. This classic concoction is known for its refreshing and light nature, making it an ideal drink for any occasion. It’s a staple in Austrian wine culture, reflecting the country’s appreciation for balance and simplicity in their beverages.
18) Almdudler Spritz
- Herbal spritzer.
Almdudler Spritz is a refreshing Austrian cocktail made by mixing Almdudler (an herbal lemonade-like soft drink) with white wine or Prosecco. It’s a summer favorite, known for its light, invigorating flavor with a herbal twist. This drink embodies the Austrian tradition of enjoying light, effervescent beverages, perfect for warm days and social gatherings.
19) Hugo
- Prosecco with elderflower and mint.
Hugo is a trendy Austrian cocktail that blends Prosecco with elderflower syrup, topped with fresh mint leaves and a splash of soda water. This drink offers a delightful mix of floral and fruity notes, creating a light, aromatic, and refreshing cocktail. Its popularity has soared across Austria and beyond, becoming a symbol of modern Austrian mixology.
20) Jagatee (Cold Version)
- Iced tea cocktail.
The cold version of Jagatee is a unique Austrian twist on the traditional hot tea and rum drink. It combines black tea, rum, and various spices, served chilled. This refreshing cocktail offers a complex blend of flavors, combining the warmth of spices with the cooling effect of iced tea, making it a distinctive choice for summer evenings.
21) Kracherl
- Lemonade mixed with spirits.
Kracherl is an iconic Austrian cocktail, mixing lemonade, often home-made, with a spirit of choice, usually vodka or gin. This fizzy, sweet-and-sour drink is a staple at Austrian gatherings, offering a simple yet satisfying taste that appeals to a wide audience. Its versatility and refreshing nature make it a go-to choice for casual and festive occasions alike.
2.2. Hot Alcoholic Beverages from Austria
22) Glühwein
- Mulled wine.
Glühwein, Austria’s answer to mulled wine, is a winter staple. Made by warming red wine with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, and often sweetened with sugar and citrus, this beverage is a festive favorite. It’s not just a drink but a part of Austrian winter culture, often enjoyed at Christmas markets and social gatherings, offering warmth and cheer during the cold months.
23) Heiße Witwe
- Creamy spiked hot drink.
Heiße Witwe, translating to “Hot Widow,” is a rich, creamy Austrian cocktail. It combines black tea or coffee with a shot of rum or brandy, topped with whipped cream. This indulgent drink is known for its comforting warmth and balanced sweetness, making it a popular choice in Austrian cafes during chilly weather, providing a cozy, luxurious escape.
24) Punsch
- Spiced punch.
Punsch, a traditional Austrian punch, is a festive hot drink made with tea, wine or rum, citrus juice, and spices. This aromatic and flavorful concoction is a winter favorite, often served during the holiday season. Punsch is not only a beverage but a part of Austria’s winter celebrations, embodying the spirit of hospitality and warmth.
25) Fiaker
- Coffee with rum.
The Fiaker is a classic Viennese cocktail, named after the city’s traditional horse-drawn carriages. It blends strong black coffee with Austrian rum, and is typically garnished with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry. This robust and warming drink is a testament to Vienna’s rich coffeehouse culture, offering a spirited twist to the traditional coffee experience.
26) Jagatee (Traditional Warm Version)
- Hot tea with rum.
The traditional warm version of Jagatee is a beloved Austrian winter drink, combining black tea with rum, honey, and spices. This heartwarming beverage is known for its soothing and comforting qualities, perfect for cold winter nights. Jagatee is more than a drink; it’s a part of Austrian winter tradition, offering a warming embrace with its rich, spiced, and sweet flavors.
27) Wiener Mélange
- Spiked coffee.
The Wiener Mélange is a classic Viennese coffee cocktail, blending rich espresso with steamed milk and foam, often spiked with a shot of Austrian brandy or rum. This drink captures the essence of Vienna’s renowned coffee culture, offering a sophisticated, creamy texture with a subtle kick, making it a popular choice for both coffee and cocktail enthusiasts.
28) Maria Theresia Coffee
- Coffee with orange liqueur.
Maria Theresia Coffee is a luxurious Austrian coffee cocktail, named after the famous empress. It combines black coffee with orange liqueur and is typically topped with whipped cream. This sophisticated beverage is known for its rich, aromatic flavor, blending the boldness of coffee with the zest of orange, creating a royal coffee experience unique to Austrian café culture.
3. Austrian Brewed & Fermented Alcoholic Beverages
3.1. Wine from Austria
29) Zweigelt
- Austria’s most popular red wine grape.
Zweigelt, the most widely planted red wine grape in Austria, is known for its deep red color and vibrant fruit flavors. This wine typically presents notes of cherry, raspberry, and subtle spice. Zweigelt’s approachable character and smooth tannins make it a popular choice for both casual drinkers and connoisseurs, showcasing the richness of Austrian red wine.
30) Blaufränkisch
- Full-bodied red wine.
Blaufränkisch is a key Austrian red wine grape, producing wines that are full-bodied and rich in tannins. Known for its dark berry flavors and spicy undertones, this wine often features notes of blackberry, plum, and pepper. Blaufränkisch reflects the depth and complexity of Austrian red wines, offering a robust and flavorful experience.
31) Grüner Veltliner
- Austria’s most popular white wine grape.
Grüner Veltliner is Austria’s signature white wine grape, celebrated for its crisp acidity and spicy notes. This wine often exhibits flavors of green apple, white pepper, and citrus. Grüner Veltliner’s versatility makes it a favorite among wine enthusiasts, pairing well with a variety of dishes and reflecting the diverse terroirs of Austria’s wine regions.
32) Riesling
- Aromatic white wine.
Austrian Riesling, distinct from its German counterpart, offers a dry, crisp, and minerally profile. Renowned for its elegant floral aromas and bright acidity, this wine often has flavors of peach, apricot, and green apple. Austrian Riesling is highly sought after for its purity of flavor and its ability to beautifully express the unique characteristics of Austria’s wine regions.
33) Gelber Muskateller
- Floral white wine.
Gelber Muskateller is an aromatic Austrian white wine, known for its highly floral and fruity profile. This wine often exhibits flavors of grape, citrus, and rose, with a lively acidity. Its fragrant and refreshing nature makes Gelber Muskateller a delightful choice for those seeking a light and aromatic wine experience, embodying the floral beauty of Austrian vineyards.
34) Sämling 88 (Scheurebe)
- Aromatic white wine.
Sämling 88, also known as Scheurebe, is a unique Austrian wine grape, creating wines with a balance of sweetness and acidity. This wine is characterized by exotic fruit flavors like mango and passionfruit, coupled with a refreshing minerality. Sämling 88 is a testament to Austria’s innovative spirit in winemaking, offering a distinct and flavorful white wine experience.
35) Austrian Dessert Wines
- Sweet wines.
Austrian dessert wines, such as Trockenbeerenauslese and Beerenauslese, are renowned for their richness and complexity. These wines are made from grapes affected by noble rot, resulting in concentrated flavors of honey, dried fruit, and spice. They are highly prized for their balance of sweetness and acidity, showcasing Austria’s expertise in crafting exquisite dessert wines.
36) Eiswein (Ice Wine)
- Frozen grape wine.
Eiswein, or Ice Wine, is a rare Austrian dessert wine made from grapes frozen on the vine. This natural freezing concentrates the sugars and flavors, resulting in a wine with intense sweetness and vibrant acidity. Eiswein is celebrated for its flavors of ripe tropical fruits and honey, offering a unique and luxurious tasting experience that captures the essence of Austria’s cold winter vineyards.
3.2. Beer from Austria
37) Gösser
- Classic lager.
Gösser is one of Austria’s most famous beer brands, known for its classic lager. This beer is characterized by its clean, crisp taste with a balanced hop flavor. Gösser represents the traditional Austrian brewing heritage, offering a refreshing and straightforward beer experience that has become a staple in Austrian bars and restaurants.
38) Stiegl
- Versatile beer range.
Stiegl, an iconic Austrian brewery, offers a diverse range of beers, from lagers to specialty craft brews. Known for its quality and innovation, Stiegl beers often feature a perfect balance of malt and hops, with distinct, refreshing flavors. This brand embodies the dynamic and evolving nature of Austrian brewing, appealing to both traditionalists and modern beer enthusiasts.
39) Zipfer
- Premium lager.
Zipfer is a well-respected Austrian beer, particularly noted for its premium lager. This beer is appreciated for its light, clean taste with a subtle hoppy finish. Zipfer’s commitment to quality and its distinctive flavor profile make it a favorite among those who prefer a refined and elegant beer experience, reflecting Austria’s excellence in lager brewing.
40) Ottakringer
- Vienna’s local brew.
Ottakringer, brewed in Vienna, holds a special place in Austria’s beer scene. This brewery produces a variety of beer styles, including lagers and ales, known for their rich flavors and quality. Ottakringer is more than just a beer; it’s a symbol of Vienna’s vibrant and diverse culture, offering a taste that’s as unique as the city itself.
41) Wieselburger
- Traditional Austrian beer.
Wieselburger is a traditional Austrian beer, with a history dating back to the 18th century. Renowned for its balanced and smooth lagers, this beer is a testament to Austria’s longstanding brewing traditions. Wieselburger’s consistent quality and classic taste have made it a trusted and beloved beer among Austrians.
42) Rauchbier
- Smoky flavored beer.
Rauchbier, or Smoked Beer, is a distinctive Austrian beer style made using malted barley dried over an open flame. This process imparts a unique smoky flavor to the beer, reminiscent of bacon or smoked wood. Rauchbier is a niche yet celebrated style in Austria, appealing to those looking for a beer with a bold and unconventional taste profile.
43) Austrian Craft Beers
- Innovative craft beers.
Austrian craft beers, like those from Brew Age and Bevog, represent the innovative and experimental side of Austria’s beer culture. These breweries are known for pushing traditional boundaries, offering a range of styles from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. Their focus on creativity and quality has placed Austria on the map in the global craft beer scene, showcasing the country’s growing diversity in beer production.
3.3. Other brewed and fermented alcoholic drinks from Austria
44) Sturm
- Young, fresh, fermenting wine.
Sturm is a unique Austrian beverage, essentially a young wine in the midst of fermentation. It’s sweet, low in alcohol, and slightly fizzy, capturing the freshness and excitement of the grape harvest. Sturm is a seasonal delicacy, reflecting the joyous spirit of Austrian wine culture and the anticipation of the new vintage.
45) Austrian Cider
- Fermented apple juice.
Austrian cider, locally known as ‘Apfelwein’, is a refreshing alcoholic beverage made from fermented apple juice. It ranges from sweet to dry, offering a variety of flavors based on different apple varieties. Austrian cider represents the country’s innovation in using local produce to create beverages that are both delightful and reflective of Austria’s agricultural heritage.
46) Most
- Cider-like beverage from fermented fruit juice.
Most is a traditional Austrian beverage similar to cider, typically made from apples or pears. It varies from sweet to tart, and is less carbonated than typical ciders. Most is deeply rooted in rural Austrian culture, often produced by small-scale local farmers, reflecting the simplicity and authenticity of traditional Austrian life.
47) Mead
- Ancient honey-based wine.
Mead, or honey wine, is an ancient alcoholic drink made by fermenting honey with water. In Austria, mead is a niche but cherished beverage, often infused with fruits, spices, or herbs. This drink encapsulates the essence of Austrian tradition, offering a sweet, rich flavor that connects modern drinkers with historical brewing practices.
48) Radler
- Beer-lemonade mix.
Radler, a popular Austrian drink, is a refreshing mix of beer and lemonade. This light, low-alcohol beverage is perfect for warm weather and is known for its thirst-quenching properties. Radler represents Austria’s love for beer and innovation, offering a delightful twist that appeals to those seeking a milder, more refreshing alternative to traditional beers.
4. Austrian Non-Alcoholic Drinks
4.1. Cold Alcohol-free Beverages from Austria
49) Almdudler
- Traditional herbal lemonade.
Almdudler is Austria’s iconic herbal lemonade, often referred to as the “national drink.” Made from natural alpine herbs, it offers a unique and refreshing flavor, distinct from other sodas. Almdudler is a symbol of Austrian beverage culture, enjoyed on its own or as a mixer, reflecting the country’s love for herbal and natural ingredients.
50) Hollerblütenlimonade
- Elderflower lemonade.
Hollerblütenlimonade, or Austrian Elderflower Lemonade, is a delightful, fragrant beverage made from elderflowers. It’s known for its light, floral taste with a hint of citrus. This drink is a summertime favorite in Austria, offering a sweet, refreshing escape from the heat, and showcasing the country’s fondness for using local flora in beverages.
51) Gespritzter
- Sparkling water with juice.
Gespritzter is a popular Austrian drink made by mixing sparkling water with fruit juice. Apfelsaft gespritzt, a blend of apple juice and sparkling water, is a common variant. This light and refreshing drink is perfect for any occasion, reflecting Austria’s preference for simple yet flavorful beverages.
52) Kürbiskernöl Drink
- Unique beverage with pumpkin seed oil.
The Kürbiskernöl Drink is a unique Austrian creation, blending pumpkin seed oil with lemon and water. This unusual drink is known for its nutty flavor and health benefits. It’s a testament to Austria’s innovative use of local ingredients, offering a distinct and nutritious beverage option.
53) Seasonal Fruit Juices
- Fresh, natural juices.
Austria’s seasonal fruit juices, like apricot (Marillensaft), cherry (Kirschsaft), elderberry (Holundersaft), currant (Johannisbeersaft), and chestnut (Kastaniensaft), are celebrated for their pure, fresh flavors. These juices are made from locally sourced fruits, capturing the essence of Austria’s rich agricultural bounty and the changing seasons.
54) Tafelwasser
- Natural spring water.
Tafelwasser, or table water, from Austrian springs is renowned for its purity and mineral content. Sourced from pristine alpine springs, this water is a staple in Austrian dining, appreciated for its clean, refreshing taste. It reflects Austria’s natural beauty and the country’s commitment to preserving its pristine environment.
4.2. Hot Alcohol-free Beverages from Austria
55) Heiße Schokolade
- Rich hot chocolate.
Heiße Schokolade is Austrian hot chocolate. The drink is creamy and luxurious, often richer and thicker than its global counterparts. Made with high-quality cocoa and milk, it’s a favorite in Austrian cafes, especially in winter. This drink is a testament to Austria’s love for indulgent, comforting beverages, often topped with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
56) Wiener Kaffee
- Traditional Viennese coffee.
Wiener Kaffee, or Viennese Coffee, is a classic Austrian coffee preparation, known for its strong, rich flavor. It’s typically served black, often with a side of whipped cream. This coffee style is a staple in Vienna’s famous coffee houses and reflects the city’s deep-rooted coffee culture, offering a taste of local tradition and sophistication.
57) Mokka
- Strong espresso.
Mokka, an Austrian-style coffee, is a strong, espresso-like beverage. It’s known for its intense flavor and thick crema, typically served in small cups. Mokka is central to Austria’s coffee tradition, enjoyed throughout the day, and is often the base for other popular Austrian coffee drinks, showcasing the country’s passion for robust and flavorful coffee. Often served with a glass of water and milk on the side.
58) Heiße Zitrone
- Hot lemon drink.
Heiße Zitrone, a simple yet popular Austrian drink, is made by mixing hot water with fresh lemon juice, often sweetened with a bit of sugar or honey. This drink is cherished for its health benefits, particularly during the cold months, offering a vitamin C boost and a soothing, comforting experience.
59) Kräutertee
- Infusion of herbal tea blends.
Kräutertee, or Herbal Tea, in Austria, is an infusion of various local herbs, each offering unique flavors and health benefits. From calming chamomile to refreshing peppermint, these teas are deeply ingrained in Austrian culture. Herbal teas are valued not only for their taste but also for their therapeutic properties, reflecting Austria’s appreciation for natural remedies and the soothing power of herbs.