Wine Battle at Handwerk Restaurant Vienna

WINE BATTLE - THE CHEFS BATTLE
4 COURSES – 2 COUNTRIES – 2 CHEFS – 1 WINNER
Wine & Culinary in a direct duel – Four courses full of excitement.
Welcome to the ultimate Winebattle "The Chefsbattle" – an evening where enjoyment becomes a competition! In four exciting courses, two wine countries compete against each other with two carefully selected wines per course. But it's not just in the glass; it gets serious on the plate as well: Our chefs de cuisines Dominik and Deniz cooking against each other – inspired by the respective country. Course by course, plate by plate.
Experience how wine and culinary arts merge – not harmoniously, but combatively!
Per batch two wines from two different countries as well as two dishes the competitors serve. They enjoy, compare – and decide:
Which wine is more convincing? Which plate stays in your mind?
RESERVATION
Reserve conveniently online, by phone, or by email:
- ☆ Online (Book ticket)
- ☆ By phone at: +43 1 52165-840
- ☆ By email to: info@handwerk-restaurant.at
Our team is happy to assist you with the booking.
THE CONCEPT
4 courses – 2 countries – 2 chefs – 8 wines – 8 dishes
- ☆ 1 glass Aperitif for the greeting
- ☆ Per serving: 2 dishes | 2 wines | 2 decisions
- ☆ They rate live: Which wine is a better match? Which dish is convincing?
- ☆ FREE PARKING LOT IN THE HOTEL GARAGE
- ☆ EUR 79,- per person
-
DOMINIK VS. DENIZ
Two chefs. Two signatures. Two culinary visions. Dominik stands for heart, clear aromas, precise technique, and authentic culinary art. Deniz brings a spirit of experimentation, creativity, and modern fine dining influences to the plate. Each course a new duel – each dish a statement.
ENJOYMENT MEETS ENTERTAINMENT
The evening will be moderated by Mat Schuh – known as a moderator, entertainer, musician, and actor. With charm, humor, and a touch of improvisation, he guides the evening and ensures that no glass and no eye remains dry.
WINE BATTLE - THE CHEFSBATTLE - ALL EVENTS IN DETAIL
SPAIN VS. ARGENTINA
15.04.2026 | 18:30 Uhr
CLASSICS AMONG THEMSELVES
Spain and Argentina are among the most famous wine regions in the world. Spanish wines are characterized by their powerful diversity from the 17 wine regions. In particular, wines from Rioja and Ribera del Duero have made the leap onto the international wine stage. Argentina impresses with high quality, especially in red wines like Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot, which find worldwide recognition.
Tickets are limited!
Let yourself be pampered by first-class wines and hearty cuisine from both countries and be there when it comes to: A or B!
FRANCE VS. CANADA
06.05.2026 | 18:30
TWO COUNTRIES. ONE WINNER.
Experience an unforgettable evening full of flavor and culinary diversity when it comes to: France vs. Canada! Taste excellent wines and culinary delights from both countries and vote for your favorite. France – the epitome of tradition, elegance, and great wines meets Canada as a young, dynamic wine country with exciting new discoveries, producing wine since the 19th century.
Tickets are limited!
Look forward to an evening of French classics and Canadian freshness in a glass. Taste exquisite wines, accompanied by culinary highlights from both countries, and vote: Which country is your favorite?
PORTUGAL VS. CHILE
06/10/2026 | 06:30 PM
TRADITION MEETS INNOVATION
Portugal and Chile – two wine countries with unique character. Portugal delights with centuries-old wine tradition and rare indigenous grape varieties, while Chile, shaped by the Andes and the Pacific, impresses with freshness, clarity, and international ambition. Together, they represent the perfect combination of tradition and innovation – and for extraordinary wines.
Tickets are limited!
Dive into the world of these two wine countries: Experience characterful wines and enjoy authentic cuisine from Portugal and Chile. A delightful and entertaining evening awaits you at the Handwerk Restaurant.
Past Events
THE MOUNTAINS & THE SEA
09/13/2023 | 6:30 PM
Light-footed to Voluminous
The coastal landscapes of Europe offer a wide range of wines: from light-footed to voluminous, from dry to sweet, from reductive to oxidative. Everything is possible! The question is: Do you prefer wines from the flat coastal areas by the sea with plenty of sunshine or from high up in the mountains with rather harsh climatic conditions? Hot, dry summers and mild winters are the ideal conditions that have allowed grape cultivation by the sea for thousands of years, producing full-bodied wines with ripe tannins and less acidity. In contrast, the Cool-Climate wines from the high altitudes are the exact opposite. They exude lightness and elegance due to the significantly more extreme temperature fluctuations. The wines are richer in extract and more intense in aromatic compounds.
Join Josef Maria Schuster, Head Sommelier at KASTNER AllesWein, on an exploratory journey to the Mediterranean wine regions of Europe. At Handwerk Restaurant, an exclusive tasting of selected wines from Europe's coastal landscapes awaits you during the Wine Battle “The Mountains & The Sea,” accompanied by the culinary delights of the aromatic South.
YOUNG WINE TIME
OCTOBER 11, 2023 | 6:30 PM
Wild | Stormy | Independent
Whether it's a storm, dusty, or young wine, whether from Austria, France, or Italy – it presents itself as unpredictable, exciting, quirky, and in the grand finale as the 'lover' of the first hour. The anticipation, or better yet, the curiosity about the new vintage is an exciting time every year. Join us in diving into the world of wine-making with the exciting developmental stages of the young wine 2022. Austrian young wines will be tasted in different stages of development compared to products from France and Italy, where every year the Beaujolais Nouveau and the Novello are celebrated.
Winemaker Robert Payr will accompany you through the evening and tell you about the exciting development of the wine in the weeks leading up to the wine baptism. The evening also promises culinary youthful lightness with extravagant creations free from pretensions and rules. Be there when it gets stormy at the Handwerk Restaurant this evening ...
Winery Payr Winemaker Robert Payr, in the fifth generation, specializes in the artisanal production of regionally typical red and white wines in organic quality. The family winery, located southeast of Vienna, cultivates 12 hectares of vineyards around Höflein and the Spitzerberg with a respectful approach to nature.
AUTOCHTHON INSTEAD OF MONOTONOUS
NOVEMBER 8, 2023 | 6:30 PM
Confident wines
Rediscovered by chance and recultivated, wines from indigenous grape varieties are now a living heritage and regional identity. Austria is one of the adventurous countries in this regard, producing exciting wines from indigenous grape varieties such as Rotgipfler, Neuburger, or Roter Muskateller every year. These now have a fixed place on the wine shelf and are among the sought-after products among wine lovers. European wine powerhouses like Italy, France, Portugal, and Spain also have many insider tips from indigenous grapes to offer. Almost every region holds these regional treasures in its vineyards.
Join us on a culinary journey accompanied by confident wines from indigenous grape varieties. Following the motto: “Autochthonous instead of monotonous,” taste Austrian rarities in comparison to exciting products from other countries! We will serve you a true taste experience with autumnal ingredients. Let yourself be surprised!
RIPE GIANTS
JANUARY 10, 2024 I 6:30 PM
Good things take time...
... says the saying. This also applies to wine. Because the truly great tasting experience only occurs with wines that have been given time to age for years and develop subtle aromas and complex textures. The larger the volume, the more harmoniously the wine can mature. This is no easy task, as the tannin and extract content of the grapes, the age of the vines, the choice of containers, the suitability of the grape variety, and the terroir all play a crucial role for great wines. Wine lovers have recognized that wines only express their full potential on the palate after a certain aging period and primarily in large bottles.
Join us on a culinary journey accompanied by great, aged wines from Austria compared to international creations. On this evening, we exclusively open large-format rarities for you. Wines dating back to 2008 await you, paired with a delightful evening.
SPARKLING TOGETHER
FEBRUARY 21, 2024 I 6:30 PM
"Come quickly, I'm drinking stars!"
A cry from Dom Pierre Perignon, the French Benedictine monk who first appreciated champagne in the 17th century. Since then, champagne has taken the world stage. Protected as a brand regionally from the wine-growing area of Champagne, the sparkling elixir enjoys great popularity as a sparkling wine worldwide. Because it doesn't matter whether it's sparkling wine from Austria or Germany, champagne or Crémant from France, and Prosecco and Asti Spumante from Italy - sparkling wines have elegance and glamour, are sensual, and are wonderful food companions. Many national cuisines are ideally suited to showcase the elegant structure of sparkling wines. A glass is always welcome, anywhere and everywhere...
We invite you to enjoy an unforgettable evening with exclusive sparkling wines from Austria and around the world under the title "Sparkling Together." You can expect a great culinary experience paired with top Austrian sparkling wines compared to stars in a glass from Italy, France, and Spain.
BURGENLAND vs. BORDEAUX
06. MARCH 2024 I 18:30 Uhr
Powerful Duel
Both wines from Burgenland and Bordeaux can be described as exciting, elegant, and powerful. Two countries, two regions with a concentrated load of strength and expression. In the 90s, Burgenland winemakers set out to perfect the high craftsmanship of vinification in Bordeaux. 30 years later, top Austrian winemakers from Burgenland measure themselves on equal footing with renowned wineries from Bordeaux. Style confidence is evident in Zweigelt, Blaufränkisch, Weißburgunder, and Chardonnay from Burgenland compared to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc from the best sites in Bordeaux.
Enjoy an exclusive evening at the Handwerk Restaurant, when it’s Burgenland vs. Bordeaux. We invite you to join us in tasting top-quality wines and embark on a culinary journey through Austria and France.
WELTENBUMMLER WEIN
APRIL 3, 2024 I 6:30 PM
Hello "Gruner"
Known and loved! The Austrians adore their Grüner Veltliner. This grape variety is and remains the local flagship in the wine world. However, in recent years, this indigenous variety has also elegantly found its way into other wine-growing countries and established itself worldwide. Often only in small quantities, but still, you can find Grüner Veltliner from Italy to New Zealand and also in California. There, the Austrian flagship grape is called “Gruner.” By the way, the red counterpart – the Austrian Zweigelt – can also be found in Spain and Germany. Austria goes international!
On this evening, well-known, indigenous grape varieties will be tasted, which are cultivated in various countries and show their products in completely different character and expression due to the typical terroir and climate of the region. True to the motto: So similar and yet different! You can expect a delightful evening with a lot of “diversity” at the Handwerk Restaurant.
NATURBURSCHEN AMONG THE WINES
MAY 15, 2024 I 6:30 PM
Fascination of Natural Wines
Healthy and robust, diverse and natural, like a nature boy! In the wine universe, natural wines represent the new force in organic viticulture. They are on the verge of becoming the trendy favorites of the wine scene: Cabernet Blanc, Souvignier Gris & Co. are gaining more and more importance and impress with their quality and aging potential. Thanks to their robustness against fungal diseases, PIWI grape varieties can be vinified without any chemical interventions or additives. With an expression of authentic terroir characteristics, natural wine delights with pure naturalness and surprising flavor diversity.
This is exactly what we want to test. On this evening, characterful and expressive wines produced by Austrian organic wineries will be tasted. These will confidently stand up against successful creations from international winemakers. You can expect a delightful evening with fascinating natural wines.
HOLIDAY IN A GLASS
JUNE 05, 2024 I 6:30 PM
Wines from the South
The grand finale of the Wine Battle season promises this time "Vacation in a Glass." Because vacation regions like Italy, Spain, France, Greece, but also internationally like California, Australia, South Africa have ideal conditions for the grapes. More sunshine, consistent weather, and a longer ripening period in autumn produce wines that have powerful bodies and aromas. You can taste the difference: robust Shiraz from Barossa, rich blends from the southern Rhône Grenache-Syrah-Mourvèdre, dense Malbec from the Uco Valley, and juicy Zinfandel from California's Lodi. Exciting and intense at the same time, like the cuisine of the south: from grilled sardines, gambas cooked in a clay pot with aioli, ciabatta with garlic and parsley to Catalan fish stew.
The evening will be colorful, full of flavor, and delightful – simply wonderful. You can expect an exclusive selection of wines from the south, which will be tasted together with Austrian specialties. We will capture pure vacation feeling for you in a culinary way.
Austria vs. South Africa
2022 I 18:30 Uhr
At the Cape of Good Wines
In the 17th century, Jan van Riebeeck of the Dutch East India Company planted the first grapevines in South Africa. Later, Huguenots and Brits followed, but it was only since the end of apartheid that significant investments have been made in South African viticulture. Since then, efforts have been ongoing to develop and enhance the characterful wines. The unique climatic conditions produce internationally award-winning top wines, with red and white wines being equally cultivated. The most important grape varieties include Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Semillon, and Viognier. For red wines, they are Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Pinotage, Merlot, Cinsaut, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Franc.
In addition to award-winning wines, South Africa also offers culinary highlights. The multi-ethnic past shapes the excellent cuisine, which is rooted in complex colonial influences. Enriched with Asian spices, local vegetables, or exotic fruits, it is a successful blend of Dutch, Portuguese, English, Malay, and Indian cooking traditions. The menu features delicacies such as Boboties (minced meat with curry spices) or Sosaties (meat skewers), but Kudu or Impala can also be found in South African pots.
Austria vs. France
2022 I 18:30 Uhr
The art of living
And who could do it better than the French? France is undoubtedly the most important wine-growing region in the world, and not without reason do winemakers internationally look to the leader. French viticulture can be proud of its rich history, as the roots of wine production can be traced back to the 2nd century. In no other region of the world is the proportion of top wines higher. In renowned wine-growing areas such as Bordeaux or Champagne, around 45 million hectoliters of wine are produced annually. Outstanding French wines are mostly made from the Chardonnay grape, but French winemakers also prefer varieties such as Merlot, Grenache, Syrah, or Cabernet Sauvignon.
France's Haute Cuisine has long become an international term. No wonder, then, that chefs from all over the world flock to the French capital to learn from the best of the best. The French cuisine is as diverse as the landscape itself, with a wide range of culinary delights. While veal is preferred in Normandy, in Brittany it is lamb or seafood like lobster and scallops. In Provence, aromatic herbs dominate the pots, and in Burgundy, it is escargot, meat, fish, and poultry specialties with exquisite wine sauces.
South Africa vs. California
FEBRUARY 19, 2025 | 6:30 PM
A FESTIVAL OF FLAVORS AND DIVERSITY!
Dive into a world of the best wines from two outstanding wine regions. Let yourself be enchanted by the unique characters and stories of the most renowned wineries in South Africa and California, and enjoy an exciting duel of wines.
Secure your spot today for this unique wine experience. Come and decide for yourself which wine is your favorite – South African or Californian? Be there as two wine worlds collide and create an evening full of flavor and excitement.
What to expect:
- Exquisite wine tastings:
Enjoy an exquisite selection of wines from the top growing regions of South Africa and California, presented by experienced sommeliers.
- South African wines:
Discover the impressive variety of South Africa with wines from regions such as Stellenbosch, Paarl, and Constantia. Look forward to bold red wines like Pinotage and Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as fresh white wines like Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc.
- California wines:
Let yourself be inspired by the diversity of California, with wines from Napa Valley, Sonoma, and Central Coast. Experience outstanding Zinfandels, Chardonnays, and Cabernet Sauvignons that capture the essence of the California wine landscape.
- Culinary delights:
Enjoy perfectly matched dishes that harmoniously complement the flavors of the wines. Experience a culinary journey with specialties from South Africa and California.
- Wine knowledge:
Deepen your knowledge about the wine cultures of both regions. Did you know that grapes have been harvested in South Africa since 1659 and the most famous grape variety is called Pinotage? And in California, Spanish missionaries have been harvesting grapes since the 18th century. Our sommeliers, of course, know much more and offer you exciting insights into the wines, growing regions, and the history of both countries.
AUSTRIA vs. GERMANY
12 MARCH 2025 | 18:30
A DUEL OF THE CLASSICS!
Experience an extraordinary evening of wine culture at our exclusive event. Let yourself be enchanted by the diverse aromas and stories of the most renowned wineries from both countries and enjoy a fascinating duel of wines.
Secure your spot today for this special wine experience. Whether you are a wine connoisseur or a curious enthusiast – this event offers an unforgettable journey through the world of wines. Come and decide for yourself which wine is your favorite – Austrian or German? Be there as two wine countries meet and create an evening full of enjoyment and excitement.
What to expect:
- Exquisite wine tastings:
Enjoy a selection of exquisite wines from the best growing regions of Austria and Germany, presented by experienced sommeliers.
- Austrian wines:
Discover the elegance and diversity of Austria with wines from regions such as Wachau, Burgenland, and Styria. Look forward to characterful white wines like Grüner Veltliner and Riesling, as well as impressive red wines like Blaufränkisch and Zweigelt.
- German wines:
Let yourself be inspired by the quality and sophistication of German wines, with drops from Rheingau, Mosel, and Pfalz. Experience the clarity of Riesling, the richness of Spätburgunder, and the diversity of other grape varieties.
- Culinary highlights:
Enjoy perfectly matched dishes that harmoniously complement the flavors of the wines. Experience a culinary journey through Austria and Germany.
- Wine knowledge:
Expand your knowledge of the wine cultures of both countries. Our sommeliers provide you with deep insights into the growing regions, grape varieties, and winemaking techniques, and share fascinating stories about the wineries.
GREECE vs. TURKEY
MAY 13, 2025 | 6:30 PM
A JOURNEY THROUGH HISTORY AND DELIGHT!
Experience an evening full of aromas and traditions at our exclusive event: Let yourself be enchanted by the diverse flavors and rich stories of the most renowned wineries from both countries and enjoy an exciting duel of wines.
Secure your spot today for this unique wine experience. Whether you are a wine connoisseur or a curious enthusiast – this event offers an unforgettable journey through the world of wines. Come and decide for yourself which wine is your favorite – Greek or Turkish? Be there as two historic wine regions meet and create an evening full of enjoyment and excitement.
What to expect:
- Exquisite wine tastings:
Try the best wines from the most famous growing regions of Greece and Turkey, presented by experienced sommeliers.
- Greek wines:
Discover the diversity of Greece with wines from regions such as Nemea, Santorini, and Naoussa. Experience the unique aromas of Assyrtiko, Agiorgitiko, and Xinomavro as well as other indigenous grape varieties.
- Turkish wines:
Let yourself be inspired by the diversity of Turkey, with wines from regions such as Anatolia, Thrace, and the Aegean. Enjoy the complexity of Kalecik Karası, Öküzgözü, and Narince, as well as other traditional grape varieties.
- Culinary highlights:
Enjoy perfectly matched dishes that harmoniously complement the flavors of the wines. Look forward to culinary specialties from Greece and Turkey.
- Wine knowledge:
Deepen your knowledge of the wine cultures of both countries. Our sommeliers provide you with deep insights into the growing regions, grape varieties, and winemaking techniques, and share fascinating stories about the wineries.
BRAZIL vs. MEXICO
JUNE 04, 2025 | 18:30
AN EXOTIC DUEL!
Experience an evening full of passion and flavor at our unique event featuring Brazil and Mexico. Let yourself be enchanted by the diverse aromas and fascinating stories of the most renowned wineries from both countries and enjoy an exciting duel of wines.
Secure your spot today for this extraordinary wine experience. Whether you are a wine connoisseur or a curious enthusiast – this event offers an unparalleled journey through the world of wines. Come and decide for yourself which wine is your favorite – Brazilian or Mexican? Be there as two exotic wine worlds collide and create an evening full of enjoyment and excitement.
What to expect:
- Exclusive wine tasting:
Try outstanding wines from the best growing regions of Brazil and Mexico, presented by experienced sommeliers.
- Brazilian wines:
Discover the diversity of Brazil with wines from regions such as Serra Gaúcha, Vale do São Francisco, and Campanha. Look forward to fruity red wines like Merlot and Tannat, as well as refreshing white wines like Chardonnay and Moscato.
- Mexican wines:
Let yourself be inspired by the uniqueness of Mexico, with wines from regions such as Baja California, Querétaro, and Coahuila. Experience the depth of Nebbiolo, the refinement of Tempranillo, and the freshness of other local grape varieties.
- Culinary delights:
Enjoy perfectly matched dishes that harmoniously complement the flavors of the wines. Experience culinary highlights from Brazil and Mexico.
- Wine knowledge:
Deepen your knowledge of the wine cultures of both countries. Our sommeliers offer you exciting insights into the growing regions, grape varieties, and winemaking techniques, and share fascinating stories about the wineries.
ITALY VS. GEORGIA
01 OCTOBER 2025 | 18:30
TWO WINE WORLDS - AN UNFORGETTABLE EVENING
Italy is well known, but what about Georgia? Italy is one of the most important wine-producing countries in the world. Georgia boasts a 2000-year history of viticulture. On this evening, the rich diversity of terroirs in Italy faces off against the long wine tradition of Georgia. Both countries offer unique tasting experiences that you will sample at the Wine Battle. You will decide which country will hold the title at the end of the evening!
Experience an exciting wine duel accompanied by local delicacies. Let yourself be enchanted by the flavor styles of both countries! Secure your spots now!
Italy:
From the gentle hills of Tuscany to the sun-drenched coasts of Sicily – Italy captivates with iconic grape varieties such as Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, or Primitivo. Refined, approachable, and full of zest for life.
Georgia:
The country of origin of wine – here, wine has been produced for over 8,000 years, often still in traditional clay amphorae (Qvevri). Distinctive varieties like Saperavi or Rkatsiteli produce intense, characterful wines with history.
JAPAN VS. CHINA
NOVEMBER 5, 2025 | 6:30 PM
EASTERN FLAVORS
Japan is one of the emerging wine countries in Asia, producing distinctive wine styles due to its unique climate. In China, state-of-the-art wineries have emerged in regions such as Ningxia, Shandong, and Xinjiang in recent years, gaining increasing international attention. Both countries combine innovation and cutting-edge technology in viticulture, creating a fascinating diversity of aromas.
On this evening, you have the unique opportunity to taste wines from Japan and China at the Handwerk Restaurant. Let yourself be seduced by Far Eastern aromas and Asian delicacies, and vote for your favorite!
Japan:
Finesse, balance, precision – Japanese wine, especially from the Koshu grape or from cool high-altitude regions, is subtle and elegant. Perfectly balanced, often light and with impressive harmony. A reflection of Japanese aesthetics.
China:
A giant on the rise: China's wine world is growing rapidly – in quality, diversity, and style. Especially in regions like Ningxia, modern, characterful wines made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Marselan & Co. are emerging that can hold their own in international comparisons.
AUSTRALIA vs. SOUTH AFRICA
JANUARY 14, 2026 | 6:30 PM
NEW WORLD - OLD VINES: A DUEL WITH DEPTH
Australia is known for its diverse wine regions such as the Barossa Valley with bold Shiraz and Margaret River with elegant Chardonnays and Cabernet Sauvignons. South Africa impresses with regions like Stellenbosch or Swartland, which are known for aromatic Chenin Blancs, characterful Sauvignon Blancs, and Chardonnays.
Experience exquisite wines accompanied by exciting stories, solid know-how, and culinary pairings at this Wine Battle. An evening with local wines and great entertainment awaits you!
Australia:
Down Under produces more than just Shiraz! From Barossa to Margaret River – Australia's wine scene is creative, open-minded, and full of power. Whether it's Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, or surprising Natural Wines – everything that tastes good is allowed here.
South Africa:
The Cape region is one of the most exciting wine-growing regions in the world. Here, French traditions meet southern sunshine – with characterful grape varieties such as Pinotage, Chenin Blanc, or Syrah. Elegant, diverse, and always a little wild.