THE PASSION
Steep terraces and cool forests, sunny plains and a life-giving river: the Kamptal is a region of exciting contrasts. We love our homeland for this diversity. Climate and terroir enter into a special liaison here – it forms the perfect basis for our wines with their strong character. We are passionate winemakers and proud to work the unique soils of the Kamptal.
The HOCHKULTUR.
The Hochkultur.
Until the introduction of the so called Hochkultur in the middle of the 20th century – an Austrian invention, by the way – cane culture was still practised in the vineyards. The high culture not only makes work easier, but also significantly improves quality and grape health: the vines are grown to a height of over two metres and each vine is given about three square metres of soil in the vineyard. The grapes thus get more sunlight and can dry faster after rain.
The Vintage 2021.
The year started rather changeably and it remained relatively cool until late May. This delayed budbreak and flowering of the vines compared to previous wine years. After a likewise changeable summer, a wonderful September followed, which brought us – and especially the grapes – cool nights and sunny days. Perfect to let the aromas in the berries ripen. The main harvest began at the beginning of October and lasted into November. The result: classically aromatic wines with body and at the same time ripe, pithy acidity. We remain excited about the potential of the 2021 vintage.
Batonnage.
The term batonnage comes from the French word le bâton – the stick. This is the tool used to repeatedly stir the yeast in the barrel after fermentation. This process causes the wines to become rounder and creamier, but also to lose some of their youthful lightness. This is where the cellar master’s sure instinct is called for. Batonnage is one of the basic methods to influence the taste of the wine. We use it for the wines of the Terroir Collection and the Signature Collection.
the cane pruning.
Winter in the vineyards is dominated by pruning. This important manual work is carried out in all weathers in order to have the vines pruned in time before the juices migrate to the vines in spring. This lays the foundation for the next harvest, the vintner reacts to each individual vine with the chosen pruning. Strong vines can be trusted more than young tender canes. Pruning in fine weather is the perfect occasion to enjoy nature and to switch off mentally.
OUR VALUES
HANDCRAFT
Our work is a craft that we pursue passionately. We listen to the wine and feel what it needs. We accompany it through the seasons and know which hand movements are necessary to bring its incomparable character into the bottle.
TRADITION
We cultivate our vineyards according to old tradition and in harmony with nature. They thank us with varietal-typical, authentic wines and a high, consistent quality.
HISTORY
For centuries, viticulture has shaped life in our region. The oldest site in Engabrunn was terraced in 1560. The imposing treasure that our cellar guards dates back to this time: the tree press from 1564.
INNOVATION
We are experimental and curious. There is never any standstill in our cellar. We approach each wine individually and like to move in the field of tension between tradition and modernity.
FAMILY
Wine culture is deeply rooted in our family’s DNA, like an old vine. Over the years and through generations, our winery has grown while remaining a true family business by conviction.
TERROIR
The soils of the Kamptal are a gift. We appreciate their uniqueness and the complexity with which they subtly and incomparably influence the wine.
One of the highest maxims of our winery is to concentrate on the essentials: to press noble wines from high-quality grapes. This principle is pursued with precision and consistency. We work according to traditional methods, with a healthy dose of zeitgeist and the utmost respect for nature. Thus, in a harmonious interplay of optimal terroir, reduced yields, perfectly ripened grapes and gentle cellar techniques, dense, finesse-rich and long-lasting wines are created.
CLASSIC COLLECTION
Pure drinking pleasure and always the right choice. Light and buoyant, varietally typical and accessible – wines that are fun to drink.
Clearly defined varietal aromas, consistent over the years: the straightforward wines of the Classic Collection are made according to the textbook. Ideal for the palate that likes to find its favourite wine unchanged every year.
TERROIR COLLECTION
The essence of the region: the power of the soil, the dynamics of the climate and the individuality of each vintage shape the character of these wines.
The wines of the Terroir Collection bring the full flavour of their origin into the glass. Unobtrusive and without loud exotic notes, they tell of their individual origins.
SIGNATURE COLLECTION
As unique as the sites in which they grow: carefully brought to maturity and vinified with passion, these wines bear the unmistakable signature of the winemakers.
From hand harvesting to spontaneous fermentation and ageing on wood: the strong character wines of the Signature Collection are given plenty of freedom to develop their full complexity.
