The Climate

The prevailing climate around Neusiedler Lake is that of the Pannonian plains to the east. It is characterised by cold winters, hot, dry summers and warm autumn days (known as Altweibersommer: Indian summer). Northern Burgenland has more days of sunshine a year than anywhere else in Central Europe and the highest average temperatures in Austria.

These are highly favourable conditions for viticulture. And the hills around Schützen feature a number of ideal microclimatic conditions as well.

Neusiedler Lake has the greatest local influence on the weather. On the lowland plains of Hungary, the Pannonian climate is often harsh, but the huge water surface of the lake tempers it. The lake prevents the dreaded late frosts of spring and helps moderate the cold nights of autumn. During the dryness of summer it provides welcome humidity.

A second climatic influence is provided by the mountain-like hills called "Leithagebirge" behind the village. The Leithagebirge is the last foothill of the Alps before the Pannonian plain appears. Approximately 400 meters high,
5 - 7 kilometers wide and 35 km long, this massif is situated northeast to southwest.  The wooded ridge protects the vineyards from the cold west wind and also provides cooling on warm summer evenings.