Historic Sekt Production in Vienna Comes to an End After 182 Years

Vienna is set to lose a significant piece of its culinary heritage as Schlumberger, a renowned producer of sparkling wine, announces the cessation of its production in the city by mid-2025. This decision marks the conclusion of a 182-year-long tradition in the Austrian capital, where Schlumberger has been a staple in the sparkling wine industry.

The company's production will not only halt in Vienna but will also end at its second facility located in Bad Vöslau, about 35 kilometers south of the city. The decision to relocate stems primarily from economic considerations. Schlumberger has hit capacity limits at both its Vienna and Bad Vöslau sites, leaving no room for economically viable expansion.

As part of its restructuring, Schlumberger has initiated the development of a new production facility in Müllendorf, located in the Burgenland region. Construction on the new site began in June 2023. This facility aims to enhance operational efficiency and sustainability by reducing transportation distances as the company consolidates its manufacturing processes.

Investment in the Müllendorf site is projected to be in the mid-double-digit million range, according to company statements. The new location is expected to create approximately 35 jobs, further contributing to the local economy.

Despite the production shift, Schlumberger's headquarters and management will remain in Vienna. Additionally, the company plans to keep its visitor center operational, which offers tours and tastings in the historic wine cellars that date back over 300 years. This aspect of the business will continue to draw both locals and tourists, preserving a connection to the company's storied past.

Founded in 1842 by Robert Alwin Schlumberger, the company has been a pioneer in using the Méthode Traditionnelle for sparkling wine production in Austria. This method involves a secondary fermentation in the bottle, which is a hallmark of quality in sparkling wines. In 1973, Schlumberger was acquired by the German family-owned company Underberg, which subsequently took it public in 1986. In 2014, a majority stake was acquired by the Swiss holding company Sastre SA.

The closure of Schlumberger's production facilities in Vienna is a poignant reminder of the evolving landscape of the beverage industry and the challenges that traditional businesses face in adapting to modern economic realities.