Niederösterreich, also known as Lower Austria (an ironic name, as it is located in the far northeastern reaches of the country), is Austria's largest wine area. Bordering with Slovakia and the Czech Republic, it encompasses eight wine regions, including Kamptal, Weinviertel and Wachau. Grüner Veltliner is the signature wine here, as the variety accounts for 44% of all plantings. The climate is dry and cool, which helps preserve acidity in the grapes, giving these wines good aging potential. While the northern part of Niederösterreich is cool, the Carnuntum region to the south is warmer; red grapes such as Zweigelt and Blaufrankisch are ideal varieties for this particular climate. Given that eight of the 16 Austrian wine regions are situated within Niederösterreich, there are numerous types of wine produced in the area, from valley floor vineyards up to hillside plantings. (Wine/Appellations)