8/1/2026
Schilcher Frizzante: The Underrated Summer Wine
Alongside still Schilcher, there's a lightly sparkling version that's often overlooked in summer, even though it's made for exactly that: cool, fizzy, uncomplicated.
When people think of Schilcher, they usually picture the still, single-varietal wine made from Blauer Wildbacher. Less well known is the Frizzante version - a lightly sparkling take on the same base wine, produced by several wineries in the Schilcherland.
What Sets Frizzante Apart from Still Schilcher
Frizzante refers to a lightly sparkling wine - less carbonated than sparkling wine or champagne, but noticeably livelier than a still wine. In Schilcher Frizzante, the Blauer Wildbacher's pronounced acidity gets a fine effervescence on top - combined with notes of wild strawberry and red currant, the result feels more like a fresh aperitif than a classic glass of red or rosé.
What Frizzante Is Good For
Well chilled, on a warm afternoon, without much fuss - Frizzante isn't a wine for long contemplation, but for the uncomplicated moment. As an aperitif before a meal, alongside a light summer dish, or just on its own in the garden.
Where to Find It
Several wineries in the Schilcherland bottle their own Frizzante - worth asking about at a tasting directly with the winemaker. You'll find tasting options nearby under Wine Tasting in the Schilcherland and in our article on the Top 5 Buschenschenken around Stainz. If you'd like to understand what makes Schilcher itself distinctive first, see Discovering Schilcher.
Is Frizzante the same as sparkling wine?
No - Frizzante is noticeably less carbonated than sparkling wine or champagne, with a finer, shorter-lived effervescence.
Is Schilcher Frizzante sweet?
Usually more off-dry to lightly fruity rather than sweet throughout - it varies by winery.
When is the best time to drink it?
Well chilled, in summer, ideally as an aperitif or alongside a light meal outdoors.