Encounters in the Terroir of Kaltern at the Lake

A paradise for wine connoisseurs: These vineyards are situated near Sallegg Castle. At 550 metres above sea-level, the grapes grown at the Preyhof estate reflect the airy heights and the mountains. Pinot Blanc and Pinot Nero thrive here in these historical vineyards – where a new day is breaking. The calcareous (limestone-rich), gravelly, and argillaceous soil with a high humus content provides a firm substrate and nourishes the grapevines. The evening wind coming down from the Mendel Massif cools them and imbues them with a crisp freshness. The vineyards are lined with Trento marble to protect them towards the inside and the outside. – A noble material for high-potential grapes. The estate building displays traditional architecture and boasts a wonderful veranda for exclusive events.

In the heart of Kaltern, beneath Sallegg Castle, lie the historical Leisenpuiten vineyards. In 1892, Maria Raineria – the ruler of Campofranco – entered it, together with the entire estate, in the land register. With the Roen mountain looming behind it, and boasting a beautiful view of Lake Kaltern, the Leisenpuiten vineyard breaths the spirit of Kaltern. It's a premiere site for cultivating white wines. The deep, gravelly, argillaceous soil is rich in limestone and humus – ideal for Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Gewürztraminer grapes. The evening winds off the Mendel cool the grapevines, promoting a crisp freshness and acidity typical for this site. Today, the Leisenhof estate serves as a boutique hotel, home to the Vineria wine bar, the gateway to guided tours and tastings, and the heart of Castel Sallegg's wine experience.

The grapes cultivated at the Seehof seem to absorb all the superlative qualities of their surroundings: the gentle lake, the charming landscape. The vineyards – starting at 230 metres above sea-level – form a sort of amphitheater. The deep, gravelly limestone soil is rich in humus, sand, and clay – all factors contributing to the outstanding qualities of our signature wines: Schiava, Merlot, and Moscato Rosa; as well as Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. Although there are only few rows of Moscato Rosa, these extraordinary grapevines demand – and receive – a great deal of care and attention. In 1892, Enrico Prince of Campofranco brought this grape variety to Lake Kaltern in an act of love.

Like a natural amphitheater crowded with ancient grapevines, facing Lake Kaltern. It offers more than just the perfect soil for Schiava grapes. Rather, it testifies to living viticultural tradition: The Vigna Bischofsleiten is where our heart beats. It's where Lago di Caldaro wine enjoyment begins. The terroir is engraved in the grapes. A superb individual site. The Bischofsleiten bears the premium name "Vigna" with pride – a testament to the origin of the grapes.