Lagrein in the Castle Garden
How Georg Riegler cultivates the historic vineyard at Maretsch Castle with passion and responsibility

Gravel-rich soil, sunshine from early morning until late evening, and constant ventilation from the Sarntal valley wind: this ideal combination for producing excellent grapes was already known in the 12th century. It is no coincidence that a vineyard was planted around the imposing keep of Maretsch Castle, still framing the estate in picturesque fashion today.

For young winemaker Georg Riegler, being entrusted by the Bolzano Tourism Board with cultivating the typical Lagrein here is a great honor. “My grandfather already farmed this land. Now it is my duty and responsibility to carry on this tradition with my family,” says Riegler.

For him, the working year begins after St. Martin’s Day (on November 11), when vegetation is dormant and pruning can begin. This is followed by “tying,” when the remaining fruiting canes are carefully fastened to the wires. In March, the vine begins to “weep,” showing that the roots are taking up water again, sap is flowing, and growth is resuming. “Drops appear at the cut points, and they have a disinfecting effect,” Riegler explains.

Grape quality is influenced by many factors that come into play at a very early stage: Was there enough water during winter? Does budbreak in spring occur slowly enough to survive frost nights unharmed? “Through good vineyard care, such as targeted pruning and ‘schabigen’ — that is, canopy management to ensure proper air circulation — we winemakers can influence quite a lot. But ultimately, terroir remains decisive: the interaction of soil, climate, and location,” Riegler emphasizes. And the vineyard around Maretsch Castle offers ideal conditions: here, on behalf of the Tourism Board, the young winemaker produces around 17,000 bottles of Lagrein per year.

He can hardly imagine a more beautiful workplace than these two hectares in the heart of the city, which reflect the rural character of South Tyrol. When summer is generous with sunshine and the tannin content of fully ripe grapes increases, the conditions for an outstanding Lagrein are in place. “Then harmony in our product is perfect, and the harvest at the end of September promises a balanced yet powerful vintage.”

Caption: Georg Riegler loves his workplace at the historic vineyard near Maretsch Castle. There, on behalf of the Bolzano Tourist Board, he produces about 17,000 bottles of Lagrein per year on two hectares.