Weingut Werlitsch: A Symphony of Biodynamic Winemaking

Weingut Werlitsch, located in the picturesque region of Südsteiermark, Austria, is a biodynamic winery operated by Ewald and Brigitte Tscheppe. This family-run estate spans 9 hectares of vineyards and is renowned for its commitment to sustainable and natural winemaking practices.

A Legacy of Biodynamics
Ewald Tscheppe took over the family farm at the age of 26 and has since transformed it into a beacon of biodynamic viticulture. The vineyards are planted predominantly with white grape varieties, including Sauvignon Blanc, Morillon (Chardonnay), and Welschriesling. The vines grow on steep, chalky marl and clay-silt soils, which contribute to the unique character of the wines.

Distinctive Winemaking Philosophy
At Werlitsch, the winemaking process is deeply rooted in minimal intervention. Ewald and Brigitte believe in letting nature guide the production, from hand-harvesting the grapes to using spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts. The wines are aged in large wooden barrels and amphorae, often for extended periods, to develop complexity and depth. This approach results in wines that are both expressive and reflective of their terroir.

Signature Wines
The winery is known for its "Vom Opok" series and "Ex Vero" wines, which highlight the nuances of different vineyard sites. For instance, the "Ex Vero" series is divided into three parts based on the elevation and soil composition:

Ex Vero I: From flatter areas with more clay, producing structured and balanced wines.
Ex Vero II: From mid-slope vineyards, offering a blend of clay and rocky soils, resulting in wines with finesse and minerality.
Ex Vero III: From the steepest, highest-elevation plots with pure bedrock, yielding wines with great intensity and aging potential.
The Tscheppes also produce skin-fermented orange wines, such as "Glück" and "Freude," which are notable for their rich texture and aromatic complexity.