Katrin Lautner
Written by Petra Gratzer-Weninger on the 21st of June 2024This time, we're especially pleased that our cellar master, Katrin Lautner, is tasting the wines of the winter edition for us.
Katrin has been looking after the wines in our cellars since the beginning of 2023. A native of Central Burgenland, she developed an interest in wine and organic farming at an early age. After studying oenology in Vienna, she deepened her knowledge through internships in Austria and abroad and as a cellar master with Markus Altenburger in Jois.
She found her way back to Central Burgenland by establishing her own small winery with vineyards around Neckenmarkt.
We first met Katrin through her visits to our Heurigen wine taverns and pop-ups. Her love of good food and her interest in the origin and quality of the ingredients caught our attention back then. Her precision, coupled with this interest, results in her keen sense for overseeing our wines in the cellar.

Tasting notes by Katrin Lautner
- Rósza Petsovits MMXXIII
It's a cozy evening after work in Horitschon, and what could be better than a glass of Rózsa Petsovits? The cork is out, the first glass is poured, and a bright cherry red shines. After a few swirls, the nose is drawn to the glass and encounters intense aromas of bright berries and a subtle herbal note – an enticing scent that immediately makes you want to take the first sip.
The first sip brings a refreshing kick thanks to the crisp acidity, followed by a juicy texture that makes your mouth water. Fresh red berries, a subtle peppery spice, and various herbal notes emerge on the palate.
You simply can't resist finishing the glass in one go and pouring yourself another. Cheers!
- Ofen Blaufränkisch 2021
Kalkofen is one of the vineyards that requires a lot of work and dedication. I've experienced this many times during the vineyard season. It's all the more impressive how it presents itself in the glass every time. The Ofen 2021 shines in a bright ruby red and is compelling to take a sip immediately.
Even at first smell, intense aromas of dark berries unfold, accompanied by a floral touch and a delicate herbal spice. The first sip surprises with a refreshing acidity and flattering tannins, which together offer an exceptional taste experience.
The juicy texture and long finish make this wine something truly special. The Ofen 2021 is a wine in a class of its own - Chapeau!
- Kirchholz Blaufränkisch 2015
The Weningers' mature wines never cease to amaze me – and the Kirchholz 2015 is no exception. As soon as it's poured, the wine reveals a light garnet red with bright brown reflections that pique curiosity. The first smell reveals an impressive complexity: cooked dark berries, subtle leather notes, a hint of the finest wood, and a hint of pepper.
On the palate, the Kirchholz 2015 unfolds a wonderful freshness, supported by an elegant acidity that invigorates the wine. The well-integrated tannins form a solid foundation that perfectly supports the complex aromas. This complexity continues on the palate, with new nuances emerging with every sip.
A wine that you can talk about for hours – perfect for special evenings or occasions, such as Christmas.
The Message in a Bottle is our wine subscription. Our aim here is to present to you an assortment of wines to enjoy, including interesting tasting notes from our guest authors.