Our history & philosophy

The Esterházy Winery is one of the most historic estates in the Pannonian region. For more than 300 years, Esterházy has been synonymous with art and culture while also playing a leading role in viticulture as well as in Burgenland’s agriculture and forestry. It is historically documented that Joseph Haydn, the court musician who served at Esterházy Palace in Eisenstadt from 1761 to 1803, received part of his remuneration in the form of wine.

Innovation has always been an important pillar of Esterházy’s winemaking. As early as 1758, the Esterházy princes began producing single-varietal wines, and they were already planting Pinot Noir in what is now Burgenland in the 18th century. Today, we continue this approach with research, innovation, and responsibility. 

On the slopes of the Leithaberg, we cultivate 65 hectares of certified organic vineyards. Sustainability is central to our philosophy: we rely on soft pruning, precise manual work in the vineyards, our own composting practices, and careful soil management to enhance the vitality of our vines. Our grape varieties — foremost Blaufränkisch and Chardonnay — reflect the Pannonian climate and the region’s limestone-rich soils. In the cellar, we combine tradition with innovation: our wines mature in Leithaberg oak, clay amphorae, and concrete eggs. This is how wines with a distinctive character are created, authentically expressing the Leithaberg’s terroir. Under the leadership of Wolfgang Hewarth, a dedicated and internationally minded team works to preserve tradition while consciously driving innovation forward. The result is wines of unmistakable character that truly mirror the Leithaberg’s terroir.