Austria's wine industry suffered from scandals in 1985, 2006, and 2008 that negatively impacted its reputation abroad. A 1985 scandal involved the addition of diethylene glycol, a poisonous alcohol, to wines to make them appear more mature. This was devastating in the short term but in the long run led to more stringent regulations and higher quality wines as the industry aimed to rebuild trust. However, Austrian wines still remain relatively unknown outside the country.

1. Cellars of Austria “ not just a place to lock up your daughters”

2. Ever tried it? Has anyone ever knowingly bought/tasted an Austrian wine? (If yes) What was it? (If majority not) Do you know why not?

3. Off the map So why aren’t Austria’s wines on the map? Antifreeze scandal of 1985 (next slide) They keep all the good stuff for themselves

4. One scandal after another 1985 - diethylene glycol scandal 2006 - Wolfgang Priklopil kidnapping scandal 2008 - Josef Fritzl incest scandal 2008 - Alfred Gusenbauer, Chancellor of Austria, commits to re-branding the country (there’s got to be a joke here about labels or something)

5. Your friendly sommelier… “ Another glass, sir?”

6. What’s your poison? 1985 - antifreeze scandal Diethylene glycol, poisonous alcohol Added to wines to make them more attractive (mature faster? - unclear) Short term: devastating to industry Long term: turned this to advantage – more stringent rules, point to prove = better wine