Hops

It's hard to believe that Leutschach an der Weinstraße is the biggest winegrowing area in Austria - and the largest hop-growing area too. With hop fields spanning over 100 hectares, the municipality is significantly involved in local beer production. Which is a good thing, as Austria's annual beer consumption per capita is consistently over 100 litres; wine consumption per capita, by comparison, is just under 30 litres.

With approx. 150 to 500 g per hectolitre of beer, the hop rate is nearly in the per mille range, but the hops give the beer its characteristic flavour.

A lively small brewery scene has sprung up over the last few years; each company has its own distinct philosophy and signature. The beers are crafted by hand, using high-quality and often regional ingredients, and are innovative, alternative, bold, unconventional and sometimes even provocative.

 

Breweries in South Styria

Hopfen- und Weinlesefest Leutschach an der Weinstraße | © Symbol

Leutschach Hops and Harvest Festival

In Leutschach an der Weinstraße, they don't just celebrate the grape harvest - they also celebrate their hops harvest. The event takes place every year on the last weekend of September. There is music and food, and a Harvest Thanksgiving parade on Sunday which always attracts plenty of attention.
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