8/1/2026
A Picnic in the Vineyard – Where and How
A table between the vine rows instead of at the bar - a few wine taverns around Stainz now offer a picnic in the vineyard as its own thing.
A tasting doesn't have to happen at the counter or in the beer garden. Several wine taverns around Stainz now offer a picnic set up right between the vine rows - packed basket, a blanket, and a view instead of a table indoors.
Where to Book One
Buschenschank Hiden (known locally as Höllerhansl) near St. Stefan ob Stainz, just about 3 km from Johann & Anna, explicitly offers a "picnic in the vineyard" as its own item on the menu - alongside its shaded arbor with a view over St. Stefan all the way to Riegersburg Castle. Weinbau und Buschenschank Machater (known locally as Florlwirt) in Gundersdorf can also arrange picnic baskets, set within its spacious grounds and own vineyard. Both are described in more detail in our article on the Top 5 Buschenschenken around Stainz.
What Goes in a Picnic Basket
Usually a selection of whatever the wine tavern already serves: a hearty platter with smoked sausage, bacon, and spreads, some bread, maybe a bit of cheese - and, of course, a bottle of Schilcher or, in season, Sturm. No program at all, just a table or a blanket between the vines.
What to Keep in Mind
A picnic in the vineyard isn't a walk-up option at any hour - most wineries want to know ahead of time how many people and roughly when, so the basket or the spot can be prepared in time. It's weather-dependent too: best on a dry afternoon between spring and autumn, when the vineyards themselves look their best.
If you'd rather look behind the scenes of winemaking than have a picnic, see Wine Cellar Tours Near Stainz.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need to book a vineyard picnic in advance?
Usually yes - the wineries prepare the basket and the spot individually, so a quick inquiry beforehand is a good idea.
Is this suitable for families with children?
Yes, several of the wine taverns mentioned also have playgrounds on site, in case the picnic turns into a longer afternoon.
What if the weather doesn't cooperate?
Most wineries offer their regular beer garden or indoor room as a backup - a quick call ahead will clarify the options.