The Austrian three-tier quality pyramid
The Austrian three -tier quality pyramid was created in order to clarify the various categories of Sekt (sparkling wine) with “Protected Designation of Origin” to consumers. According to the legal guidelines of the top category of the Pyramid, regulations adhere to the highest production standards of the global leaders in sparkling wine production, such as Champagne or even Franciacorta, and even go well beyond these standards in many cases. Should Sekt producers wish to designate their sparkling wines with “Austrian Sekt with Protected Designation of Origin” (PDO) in the categories of “Sekt Austria” or “Sekt Austria Reserve” or “Sekt Austria Grosse Reserve” on their labels, they are legally obligated to adhere to these according quality standards. A Federal Agency for Wine Production and the Federal Agency for Wine Cellar Inspection oversees adherence to these regulations.
