The Buschenschank (Traditional Wine Tavern) in the Südsteiermark
Cultural heritage of Styria
Andreas Muster in conversation with Tamara Kögl (Winery Kögl) about the questions: "What is a Buschenschank (Traditional Wine Tavern)? And what makes them so special and typical of the South Styrian Wineroad region?"
The Buschenschank (Traditional Wine Tavern) in South Styria
Our recommendations
They are an integral part of Styrian culinary culture.
Buschenschank (Traditional Wine Tavern) - Tradition
A Buschenschank in South Styria is a traditional wine tavern where winemakers serve their home-made wines. There are also regional, cold specialities such as Brettljause – traditional cold cuts, spreads and homemade delicacies. Cosy hospitality, often in the middle of the vineyards, makes a visit a special experience. The name comes from the “Buschen”, a bundle of twigs that signals that the Buschenschank (Traditional Wine Tavern) is open. In South Styria, the majority of Buschenschank (Traditional Wine Tavern) are open from March to October.
Some are also open in winter. Ask us! We know who serves the best Brettljause – traditional cold cuts! Got a taste for it?
No coke, no beer, no coffee!
In a nutshell!
These are primarily cold spreads, snacks and salads, wine & juices from our own production. Coffee, beer and hot dishes are not on the menu. However, there are no limits to creativity. Give it a try!
The Buschenschank (Traditional Wine Tavern) Act in Styria regulates which products may be offered in a Buschenschank – in particular that only home-produced wines and regional, cold dishes may be served. The law serves to protect the traditional Buschenschank (Traditional Wine Tavern) culture and clearly distinguishes them from classic catering establishments.
The popular Styrian Backhend – crispy fried chicken is not served in the Buschenschank (Traditional Wine Tavern). We serve it in the Ratscher Landhaus in the afternoon in the Lounge!
The first Buschenschank (Traditional Wine Tavern) Act in Styria dates back to 1928, but due to the rapid change of the times in the following centuries and the increasing economic importance of Buschenschank (Traditional Wine Tavern) both for the wine industry and for tourism, it no longer corresponded to the actual conditions of practice despite several recent amendments.
On the one hand, the range of food and drink on offer had to meet the demands and tastes of the guests, and on the other, clear criteria were needed to distinguish it from the catering trade.
A modern Buschenschank Act was therefore created in 1979, whereby adjustments were made to meet current requirements. The guiding principle “Buschenschank should remain Buschenschank” was the top priority in all considerations and will remain so in the future, so that guests and friends of the Buschenschank (Traditional Wine Tavern) can continue to enjoy Styrian wine in its most original form and in this special environment.
Photo impressions of the South Styrian Buschenschank (Traditional Wine Tavern)
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