Austrian wines are gaining a strong foothold in the U.S. market, driven by a dedicated group of importers, distributors, sommeliers, and restaurateurs who are showcasing the region's exceptional offerings. This article highlights the key players shaping the success of Austrian wines in the U.S., from top importers like KWSelection and Monika Caha Selections to prestigious restaurants like Wallsé and Koloman and influential sommeliers such as Katja Scharnagl, who is a Regional and Category Ambassador of the Sommeliers Choice Awards. Discover how these experts are making Austria’s world-class wines accessible and beloved by wine enthusiasts across the country.

Katja Scharnagl - Regional and Category Ambassador of Sommeliers Choice Awards

Image: Katja Scharnagl, Portfolio Ambassador to Germany, Austria & Slovenia at Skurnik Wines & Spirits

Katja Scharnagl, Regional and Category Ambassador for the Sommeliers Choice Awards, has had an impressive career that began in her upbringing in Austria's Wachau Valley. With a strong interest in culinary arts and wine, she trained as a sommelier, passing the coveted Austrian Diplom Sommelier Exam as well as the Court of Master Sommeliers Advanced Examination. Katja's professional experience includes spells at Michelin-starred Le Bernardin and the opening of Koloman in New York City. Her wine program there received recognition, including Wine Spectator's Best of Award of Excellence in 2023 and 2024.

Also Read: Focus On: Austrian Wine

[[relatedPurchasesItems-61]]

Top Austrian Wines Restaurants in the USA

From New York to California, these restaurants provide an exceptional wine experience by highlighting Austria's classic varietals and winemaking prowess.

Wallsé, New York, NY

Having bagged the International Best Austrian Wine List by Star Wines award for two consecutive years, 2023 and 2024, Wallsé offers an unparalleled selection of Austrian wines, featuring iconic Grüner Veltliners, Rieslings, and sparkling Sekts, ensuring an authentic Austrian wine experience.

Schilling Restaurant & Bar, New York, NY

This restobar, led by Michelin-starred Chef Eduard Frauneder, celebrates Austria's rich culinary heritage with contemporary flair. Known for its exceptional Austrian wines, including Grüner Veltliner, Zweigelt, and Blaufränkisch, it’s a must-visit for wine and fine cuisine enthusiasts.

Blue Hill at Stone Barns, Tarrytown, NY

It offers a unique farm-to-table dining experience, showcasing Hudson Valley's seasonal bounty. With no fixed menu, guests enjoy multi-course feasts complemented by an exceptional Austrian wine selection.

Koloman Restaurant, New York, NY

It boasts an exceptional selection of Austrian wines, including rare finds from renowned producers like Knoll and Hirtzberger. Chef Markus Glocker’s Austrian roots and precise culinary vision create the perfect pairing for exploring the country's finest wines in a sophisticated yet vibrant setting.

Naschmarkt, Campbell, CA

Naschmarkt blends Austrian cuisine with California flair, offering a unique dining experience. With a rotating selection of Austrian wines like Grüner Veltliner and Ice Wine, it's a top spot for wine enthusiasts in the Bay Area.

Image: Wallsé’s selection of Austrian wines

Top Austrian Wines Merchants in the USA

These stores combine quality, skill, and passion to deliver Austria's best to wine enthusiasts nationwide, from crisp Grüner Veltliners to exquisite Blaufränkisch.

Rosenthal Wine Merchant, New York

Rosenthal Wine Merchant carefully selects Austrian wines that reflect their terroir. They link collectors to top Austrian farmers that value quality and history through their enthusiasm for organic and natural wines.

TAYLOR'S WINE SHOP, North Carolina

This family-owned business, operating since 1980, offers a robust selection of Austrian wines, catering to diverse tastes and budgets. Known for their expertise, they provide rare and collectible wines alongside approachable, everyday bottles.

Bottle Barn, California

Offering an impressive selection of Austrian wines, Bottle Barn showcases the diverse terroirs of the region. With a commitment to quality and value, they provide both popular and rare wines, backed by expert staff.

San Francisco Wine Trading Co., California

Having been a Bay Area staple since 1976, it offers a curated selection of Austrian wines, alongside exceptional service and expert advice. Their dedicated team ensures a personalized experience for wine collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Vinous Reverie California

A haven for Austrian wine lovers, Vinous Reverie features highly rated Rieslings and unique Austrian sparklers. With expert guidance and curated selections, it’s perfect for adventurous wine enthusiasts.

Image: TAYLOR'S WINE SHOP

Austrian Wines Distributors in the USA

Several distributors across the U.S. are bringing the best of Austrian wines to the market, offering exceptional selections from family-owned wineries and artisanal producers known for their sustainable and quality-driven practices.

Ewald Moseler, Oregon

In addition to premium wines from Germany and Oregon, they also import Austrian wines for U.S. wholesalers. With over three decades of experience, they curate exceptional wines focused on quality, individuality, and value.

Jenny & François Selections, New York

They bring high-quality Austrian natural wines to the USA, showcasing artisanal producers from regions like Burgenland, Carnuntum, and Styria. They focus on wines crafted without additives or technological interventions, prioritizing sustainability and the unique character of each terroir.

Siema Wines, Virginia

It distributes and sells organic and sustainable Austrian wines from small, family-owned properties in the US. Sommelier Klaus Wittauer built their line of high-quality wines from vineyards producing under 10,000 cases yearly, offering rare and excellent selections.

Terlato, Illinois

As a multi-generational family business, it proudly represents over 85 premium wine and artisanal spirit brands, including selections from Austria. With a commitment to supporting family-owned wineries and distilleries, Terlato curates exceptional global products and is a top fine wine and spirits marketer in the U.S.

Skurnik Wines & Spirits, USA

An importer with a varied Austrian wine portfolio. With over 800 family-owned properties, they maintain quality and workmanship while delivering great Austrian wines to nine states in the US.

Also read: How To Pick The Right Distributor For Your Wine

Image: A selection of Austrian wines in Skurnik Wines & Spirits’ portfolio

Who's Who of Austrian Wines in the USA

Austrian wines are gaining prominence in the U.S., thanks to a dedicated group of experts working to showcase the diversity and quality of this region's exceptional wine offerings. Here are some of the key figures driving that success.

Austrian Wine USA

Part of the Austrian Wine Marketing Board, it drives the promotion of Austrian wines in the U.S. market. Founded in 1986, it focuses on increasing the market share and value of Qualitätswein through strategic marketing and public relations.

KWSelection

Founded by Klaus Wittauer, it imports exceptional Austrian wines to the U.S., featuring renowned producers from diverse regions. Known for high-quality selections, KWSelection showcases Austria’s unique terroir and exceptional wine craftsmanship to wine enthusiasts.

Monika Caha Selections

Developed by native Austrian Monika Caha, it provides a carefully curated selection of over 70 wines from ten boutique family estates throughout Austria. The selection prioritizes balance, elegance, and environmentally friendly winemaking processes.

Christina "Beanie" Zaeske

The Austrian Wine Specialist at Wein-Bauer blends expertise in German Studies, export knowledge, and hospitality to educate and engage clients. With hands-on experience in Austria's top wine regions, she brings exceptional wine experiences to the U.S.

Jesse Becker, MS

Jesse Becker, Master Sommelier and US Sales Manager for Veritable Wines & Estates, has over two decades of experience in the wine industry. A renowned ambassador of both Austrian and German wines, he educates and writes on these regions while managing a premium wine portfolio.

Image: MONIKA CAHA SELECTIONS founder Monika Caha

Header image sourced from Siema Wines

Related Links
The Who’s Who of Champagne in the USA: Top Importers, Restaurants, Merchants, and Distributors
The Unveiling: Emerging Wine Regions Poised to Redefine Consumer’s Palates