Hofkellerei des Fürsten von Liechtenstein is one of Europe’s most characterful wineries. Not because of size or volume, but because it carries a historical and cultural significance far beyond its production. It is the princely family’s own winery, and the connection to Liechtenstein’s identity, geography and history is present in everything they create. Tradition and modern ambition meet in a style rooted in the cool Alpine expression.
A winemaking heritage shaped by the princely family
Hofkellerei has been the official winery of the Prince of Liechtenstein since 1436. Today it is run as a modern, quality‑driven estate where the vineyards are owned by the princely family, while the production is handled by skilled specialists. The most iconic vineyard is Herawingert, a single site with more than 1,000 years of documented cultivation. It is a benchmark for the cool, tight and elegant style found on the terraces above Vaduz.
Precision in the vineyard
Work in Herawingert takes place in small parcels, with old vines and naturally low yields. The Alpine microclimate slows ripening, and the combination of limestone and slate gives the wines a lively tension and a mineral edge. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir benefit especially from this, gaining a refined, almost Burgundian elegance. The white wines are slender, cool and mineral, while the reds show red berries, gentle spice and a firm structure that creates both lightness and intensity.
Two homelands: Liechtenstein and Austria
Liechtenstein is the flagship, but Hofkellerei also produces wine in Austria, mainly around Wilfersdorf in Niederösterreich. The Austrian wines are slightly warmer and more fruit‑driven, yet still focused on balance and purity. This gives the estate a broader portfolio, ranging from accessible everyday wines to the most characterful and mineral expressions.
Hofkellerei des Fürsten von Liechtenstein – Herawingert Pinot Noir 2022
Liechtenstein, Vaduz
Red wine – Pinot Noir
Price category: Premium Price
Points: 94 – Delicious
Stars: 3 – Slightly overpriced
This Pinot Noir carries a style reminiscent of Burgundy, yet with its own personality. It is cool and mineral, showing notes of cherry, red berries and a light touch of fresh stone‑fruit character. The firm structure adds a Burgundian elegance, while ageing in small and medium‑sized French oak brings gentle depth and warmth. The result is a clear and focused wine that works beautifully with spiced dishes, roasted meats and winter cooking.
Hofkellerei des Fürsten von Liechtenstein – Herawingert Chardonnay 2023
Liechtenstein, Vaduz
White wine – Chardonnay
Price category: Premium Price
Points: 93 – Very good
Stars: 3 – Slightly overpriced
Herawingert Chardonnay combines freshness and depth in a cool, clean style with citrus, green apple and a subtle floral touch. The limestone‑driven tension from the historic vineyard creates a firm structure, while ageing in small and medium‑sized French oak adds quiet complexity without overshadowing the fruit. It is a fresh and focused Chardonnay, ideal for fish, shellfish and green dishes in spring and summer.
Hofkellerei des Fürsten von Liechtenstein – Pinot Noir Clos Domaine 2023
Liechtenstein, Vaduz
Red wine – Pinot Noir
Price category: High Price
Points: 92 – Good
Stars: 4 – Worth the money
Clos Domaine Pinot Noir shows juicy fruit and a bright freshness, with cherry, raspberry and gentle spice. The spontaneous fermentation adds natural depth and balance to the light fruit profile. Ageing in small and medium‑sized French oak is discreet, allowing the fruit to stay clear and lively. It is an accessible and focused Pinot Noir that fits well with poultry, mushrooms and lighter meat dishes in autumn and winter.
