Chapel on a hill surrounded by vineyards of the Schloss Englar winery in Eppan, South Tyrol (c) photo by Weingut Schloss Englar

The Culture of Wine

6 traditional wineries of Schlosshotels

The noblest embodiment of the spirit of nature

As summer casts its colors over the vineyards and the grapes ripen under the warm sun, a world of aromas, stories, and traditions unfolds. Wine, often referred to as "poetry in a bottle," speaks to the artistry of the winemakers, to the patience and dedication that goes into each bottle. For centuries, fine wines have accompanied festive occasions and social gatherings, telling tales of the soils they come from and the hands that tend them. At the Schlosshotels & Herrenhäuser, centuries-old wine culture merges with the timeless elegance of historic estates, creating sanctuaries of refined indulgence that also serve as guardians of tradition and heritage.

Our journey takes us to six remarkable places that unite the best of wine culture and castle romance. From the grand walls of Schloss Gobelsburg in Austria to the picturesque vineyards of Weingut Bründlmayer, from the historic architecture of Schloss Englar in South Tyrol to the volcanic soils of Winkler-Hermaden in Styria, from the noble Vitikultur Moser to the Zirmerhof with its Radoin 1560 – each of these estates has its own story to tell and invites you to experience the culture of wine in a truly special way.

"Wine is the noblest embodiment of the spirit of nature," said Friedrich Hebbel, and this embodiment comes vibrantly to life at our Schlosshotels and wineries. Here, where centuries-old traditions are nurtured and modern influences are harmoniously integrated, wine lovers and connoisseurs find a place of retreat and inspiration. Let yourself be enchanted by the magic of wine and discover the stories hidden in every bottle, as well as the passion that makes these places so unique.

Ancient wall in the vineyard of the Schloss Gobelsburg winery (c) photo Michael Moosbrugger
Exterior view with courtyard of Schloss Gobelsburg in Lower Austria (c) photo Schloss Gobelsburg

Schloss Gobelsburg: Historical Elegance and Award-Winning Wine

With a history dating back to the 12th century, Weingut Schloss Gobelsburg is the oldest winery in the Kamptal region. The loess soils and mild climate create ideal conditions for producing internationally acclaimed wines. Here, where tradition and modernity meet, a unique atmosphere unfolds that delights wine connoisseurs and history enthusiasts alike.

Celebrations at Schloss Gobelsburg


In addition to producing excellent wines, Schloss Gobelsburg has established itself as a popular event venue. The picturesque courtyard and Baroque rooms provide a dreamlike setting for weddings and corporate presentations. Hostess Eva Moosbrugger ensures perfect organization with her charming manner, making every event a truly unforgettable experience.

The Cloister Cellar – A Masterpiece of Wine Architecture


A special highlight is the so-called Cloister Cellar, completed in 2021. This impressive vaulted cellar, built stone upon stone using traditional craftsmanship, provides ideal conditions for wines to mature slowly at cool temperatures in large wooden barrels. Here, Cellar Master Franz Karner and his team dedicate themselves with utmost care to the winemaking process, with their wines reflecting a balance between tradition and innovation.

A Place of History and Delectation


Since 1996, the winery has been operated by Eva and Michael Moosbrugger, who passionately preserve and continue the centuries-old history of the estate. Within the venerable walls of Schloss Gobelsburg, wines slowly mature into masterpieces. The vinothèque and the stylish rooms of the castle invite you to taste these noble vintages in a historical setting

Wine Tip: Kamptal Riesling Ried Heiligenstein

One particular treat is their Kamptal Riesling Ried Heiligenstein ÖTW Erste Lage 2021. This wine impresses with its nuanced minerality and expressive aromatics, which are imparted by the unique terroir of the Heiligenstein. It is an ideal companion for fine dishes and special occasions.

Aerial view of the Heiligenstein vineyards in autumn at Weingut Bründlmayer in Lower Austria (c) photo Weingut Bründlmayer

Weingut Bründlmayer: A Jewel in the Heart of Kamptal

Nestled amid the gentle hills of Kamptal, Weingut Bründlmayer is a paradise for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts. The unique combination of hot days and cool nights, influenced by the forested hills of the Waldviertel and the proximity to the River Danube, gives Bründlmayer wines their unmistakable character. Here, where nature provides optimal conditions for viticulture, fine wines are produced that are appreciated far beyond Austria’s borders.

Tradition and Modernity United


Weingut Bründlmayer is a founding member of the “Österreichische Traditionsweingüter” and is dedicated to preserving and further developing classical viticulture traditions. Their vineyards are cultivated with the utmost care and in harmony with nature. Willi Bründlmayer and his team work with a passion to express the uniqueness of each winegrowing site and each grape variety. The winery is particularly proud of its Erste Lagen, which were established after years of research and classification, reflecting the best qualities of both soil and climate.

The Heurigenhof – A Must for Wine Travelers


A visit to the excellently operated Heurigenhof of Weingut Bründlmayer is an absolute highlight for wine lovers. Here, guests can taste the wines in a comfortable atmosphere and enjoy regional specialties. The estate’s vineyards are cultivated exclusively by means of environmentally friendly methods, reflected in the high quality and purity of the wines themselves. The combination of tradition and innovation is evident not only in the wine cellar but also in the warm hospitality that makes every visit an unforgettable experience.

A Modern Wine Cellar with Historical Flair


Bründlmayer's new, ultra-modern wine cellar is a masterpiece of wine architecture. Perfectly designed to harness gravity, it allows for gentle processing of the grapes. Every step of the winemaking process is done by hand, from harvesting to storage. An eco-friendly energy balance is achieved through the use of heat pumps, direct cooling with well water, and solar energy. The cellar embodies the connection between tradition and modernity that characterizes Weingut Bründlmayer as a whole.

Wine Tip: Kamptal Terrassen Grüner Veltliner 2023


One outstanding wine from the Bründlmayer winery is their Kamptal Terrassen Grüner Veltliner 2023. Rated 92 points by Parker, this Veltliner impresses with its fine minerality and expressive aromatics. A real treat for special occasions and a must for every wine lover.

Vineyards of Schloss Englar in Eppan with the castle in the background (c) photo Weingut Schloss Englar
Elegant salon with antique furniture and wooden ceiling at Schloss Englar in Eppan, South Tyrol (c) photo Schloss Englar

Schloss Englar: A Fairytale of Wine and History

In the heart of South Tyrol, surrounded by picturesque hills and endless vineyards, stands gothic Schloss Englar. This historic gem offers not only a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside, but also a journey through a centuries-old wine-growing tradition. The warm southern sun and the nutrient-rich soils give the wines of Schloss Englar their unmistakable character. Here, where history and nature go hand in hand, visitors are able to experience an oasis of tranquility and enjoyment.

Historic Winery with a Modern Spirit


Schloss Englar is not only one of the best-preserved gothic castles in South Tyrol but also an active winery, renowned for centuries for its first-class wines. The vineyards, stretching across gentle hills and protected by the surrounding mountain range, afford ideal wine-growing conditions. The mild climate and careful cultivation of the soils ensure that every drop of wine captures the essence of this unique region.

The Gutshof – A Source of Excellence


The Gutshof at Schloss Englar is the heart of the winery. Here, the grapes from the estate's vineyards are processed with immense care and refined into exquisite wines. Since 2014, the wines have once again been bottled on location, further enhancing the quality and authenticity of the wines. Their product range includes Weissburgunder, Chardonnay, and Blauburgunder, with each wine being a reflection of the exceptional terroirs of Schloss Englar.

The Vineyards – A Paradise for Wine Lovers


The vineyards of Schloss Englar cover 13 hectares and offer an impressive variety of grape varieties. The soils are rich in volcanic porphyry and limestone, giving the wines their characteristic minerality. The steep hillsides and careful organic cultivation ensure that the grapes ripen under optimal conditions, producing wines of the highest quality.

Wine Tip: Pinot Noir Riserva Südtirol DOC 2021


One special wine from Weingut Schloss Englar is their Pinot Noir Riserva Südtirol DOC 2021. With a deep ruby red color and a complex bouquet of cherry, cranberry, and wild berries, this wine impresses with its elegance and finesse. On the palate, it is smooth and harmonious, with fine tannins and a pleasant fruity sweetness. An ideal companion for wild game and hearty pasta dishes, this wine also delights with its long aging potential and intense aroma.

Schloss Kapfenstein on a hill surrounded by vineyards of the Winkler-Hermaden winery, Styria (c) photo Hotel Schloss Kapfenstein

Weingut Winkler Hermaden: A Paradise in the Styrian Vulkanland Region

In the heart of the Styrian Vulkanland region, surrounded by gentle hills and ancient volcanoes, lies Weingut Winkler-Hermaden. This historic estate is not only a jewel of Austrian wine culture but also a place where nature and history merge in perfect harmony. The warm sun and fertile volcanic soil give the wines around Schloss Kapfenstein their unique character.

Organic and Regenerative Agriculture


Since 2009, the Winkler-Hermaden family has embraced organic farming, promoting biodiversity and improving wine quality. The vineyards are green year-round, providing a habitat for numerous plant and animal species. This sustainable approach to farming helps keep the soil healthy and make the wines more resistant to climate challenges. Additionally, the winery has successfully experimented with fungus-resistant grape varieties, which require fewer pesticides and are therefore even more environmentally friendly.

The Wine Cellar – A Place of Craftsmanship


The wine cellar of Schloss Kapfenstein is a masterpiece of craftsmanship. Here, the grapes are processed gently, and the wines are aged in barrels made from the estate’s own Kapfenstein oak. This traditional method results in wines with complex aromas and an elegant body. The focus is on preserving the natural terroir and creating wines that reflect the uniqueness of the region.

A Rich History and Cultural Heritage


Schloss Kapfenstein has a rich history dating back to the 12th century. Originally built as a border fortress for protection against Hungary, the castle has witnessed numerous sieges and changes of ownership. Today, it serves as a hotel and restaurant, offering guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in history and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

Wine Tip: Ried Kirchleiten “G STK” Sauvignon blanc 2018


A special wine from Weingut Winkler-Hermaden is their Ried Kirchleiten “G STK” Sauvignon blanc 2018. This wine impresses with aromas of ripe yellow peach, passion fruit, and dried mango, complemented by fine vanilla notes. On the palate, it demonstrates a juicy-salty acidity and a powerful body with a long finish. Aging in a steel tank and large wooden barrels gives this wine its unique typicity and expressiveness. A true delight for any wine lover.

Vaulted cellar with wooden wine barrels, Vitikultur Moser in Lower Austria (c) photo Vitikultur Moser
Staircase leading to the entrance of the Atrium House at Vitikultur Moser in Lower Austria (c) photo Vitikultur Moser

Vitikultur Moser: A Masterpiece of Biodynamics

For 17 generations, the Moser family has been dedicated to viticulture in the Kremstal region of Lower Austria. Here, where tradition and modernity blend in perfect harmony, wines of extraordinary personality are created. Through biodynamic farming and minimalist vinification, lively wines are produced that reflect the uniqueness of their origin. The Atrium House, an architectural masterpiece, serves as the perfect setting for visits, tastings, and cultural events.

The Historic Atrium House


The Atrium House, built from intact components of classical Viennese buildings, is the heart of the winery. With a columned hall and a central fountain, its architecture is indeed reminiscent of a Roman atrium. The tasting room and wine cellar are located here, providing a unique setting for any event. The large terrace in front of the house affords a breathtaking view across the Danube Valley.

Biodynamic Cultivation


For the Moser family, biodynamics is more than just a methodology – it is a way of life. The soils and vines are in perfect balance, resulting in wines full of vitality. This sustainable approach to farming promotes biodiversity and preserves natural resources. The Moser family's vineyards are home to a variety of plants and animals that contribute to a healthy ecosystem.

Kremstal and Neusiedlersee


The Moser family’s vineyards extend across the Kremstal and Burgenland regions. In Kremstal, expressive whites such as Grüner Veltliner and Riesling thrive on the steep terraces. In the Seewinkel area of Burgenland, on the other hand, the focus is on full-bodied red wines and exquisite sweet wines. Both regions offer optimal conditions for biodynamic viticulture, enabling the production of wines of the highest quality.

Wine Tip: Minimal Grüner Veltliner 2017


Unfiltered, unrefined, and unsulfured, the Minimal Grüner Veltliner 2017 presents itself in an intense golden yellow. Initially somewhat introverted, upon contact with air it opens up, revealing aromas of exotic fruits and caramel. On the palate, it is full-bodied and creamy with a strong mineral character, voluminous yet elegant, and an extremely long finish. This wine pairs excellently with hearty meat dishes with sauces, such as veal steak, and has an aging potential until 2027. The grapes come from the Schnabel vineyard, characterized by south-facing terraces in a basin setting and loess soil with conglomerate rock in the subsoil. The grapes were harvested at the end of September 2017, pressed immediately, and spontaneously fermented in used 500-liter and 225-liter wooden barrels, followed by 14 months on the full lees without the addition of sulfur and another 4 months on fine lees. The wine was bottled in June 2019 without any fining, filtration, or sulfur addition.

Overhead view of the rooftops of various buildings surrounded by vineyards (c) photo Weingut Radoin 1560 / Der Zirmerhof

Weingut RADOIN 1560: The Highest Winery in Europe

In sunny Etschtal valley, the vines of Weingut RADOIN 1560 thrive. Here, in the heart of the South Tyrolean vineyards, centuries-old wine-growing traditions unite with modern, natural cultivation methods. This combination creates exceptional wines that embody both the spirit of the past and the innovation of the present. Owner Sepp Perwanger has made the estate a top European address by transforming the former garage of the Zirmerhof into an impressive winery.

The Winery – A Symbiosis of Historical and Modern


Amid the historic walls of the RADOIN 1560 winery, Sepp Perwanger has created the highest-elevation winery in Europe. The use of characteristic porphyry stone from the region and modern lighting gives the winery a unique ambiance. Here, at 1560 meters above sea level, the wines mature under optimal conditions. Temperature, air pressure, and the winter quiet provide a perfect foundation for the production and storage of these fine wines.

The Wines and Their Terroirs


The vineyards of Weingut RADOIN 1560 are located in the municipality of Montan along the South Tyrolean Wine Road. Growing in the “Kühmösl” vineyard at 400 meters above sea level are Chardonnay and Gewürztraminer. At the higher elevations of “Runggò N° 1 Unterglen” (550 meters) and “Runggò N° 2 Unterglen” (500 meters), their Pinot Noir Riserva matures to perfection. These vineyards provide optimal conditions for viticulture and produce wines of the highest quality.

Tradition and Craftsmanship


The RADOIN 1560 winery has been family-owned for generations and is operated according to traditional methods. The use of a wire-frame training system and the careful care of the vineyards contribute to the excellent quality of the grapes. Each grape is harvested by hand and aged in oak barrels. This painstaking craftsmanship and attention to detail make the wines of RADOIN 1560 truly something special.

Wine Tip: Radoin – Chardonnay


The Radoin Chardonnay 2022 is a fresh, juicy wine with light oak notes, fine tannins, and impressive length. Each of the 1,285 bottles of this vintage is individually numbered and is a testament to the painstaking manual efforts and high-quality standards of the winery. The wine is best enjoyed at the recommended drinking temperature of 12°C to 14°C, impressing with its elegant structure and complex flavor.

Vaulted wine cellar with wooden barrels at the Winkler-Hermaden winery in Styria (c) photo Weingut Winkler-Hermaden

Experiencing Wine Culture: Top Wine Tips and the Charm of the Wachau with Hotel Richard Löwenherz

1. Weingut Schloss Gobelsburg
Wine tip: Kamptal Riesling Ried Heiligenstein ÖTW Erste Lage 2021 – An elegant Riesling with fine minerality and great aging potential.

2. Weingut Bründlmayer
Wine tip
: Langenlois Alte Reben Grüner Veltliner 2023 – Falstaff Cup winner with 94 points, an exceptional Grüner Veltliner with typical regionality.

3. Weingut Schloss Englar
Wine tip: Pinot Noir Riserva Südtirol DOC 2021 – An elegant Pinot Noir with intense fruit aromas and fine tannins.

4. Weingut Winkler-Hermaden
Wine tip
: Ried Kirchleiten “G STK” Sauvignon Blanc 2018 – A powerful Sauvignon Blanc with ripe yellow peach and passion fruit notes, awarded 96 points in the A la Carte Wine Guide.

5. Vitikultur Moser
Wine tip
: Minimal Grüner Veltliner 2017 – An unfiltered, unfined, and unsulfured Grüner Veltliner with intense aromas of exotic fruits and caramel.

6. Weingut RADOIN 1560
Wine tip
: Radoin – Chardonnay 2022 – A fresh, juicy Chardonnay with light oak notes and fine tannins.

Exterior view of the former Clarissen Monastery, now Hotel Richard Löwenherz in Dürnstein, with the outdoor pool in the foreground (c) photo Hotel Richard Löwenherz

One Takeaway: Hotel Richard Löwenherz – A Special Tip for Wine Tours in the Wachau

Hotel Richard Löwenherz in Dürnstein is a perfect retreat for wine lovers looking to discover the beauty and taste of the Wachau. Since 1884, and now in the third generation, the Thiery family has been hosting guests in this former monastery. The spacious garden, sheltered between the ivy-covered town walls and a former gothic church, offers an oasis of tranquility and relaxation. Here, guests can leave behind the stresses of everyday life, stroll through the picturesque garden, and admire the splendid flowers. The idyllic outdoor pool provides welcome refreshment on warm days.

The 39 rooms and suites afford views of the Danube, while the garden invites guests to linger amid well-tended lawns and diverse plants. The hotel’s own restaurant pampers guests with classics of Austrian cuisine and international specialties. That said, Hotel Richard Löwenherz is not only an ideal starting point for exploring the Wachau, but also an oasis that offers relaxation and enjoyment in a unique historical setting.

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