Image Source: Wine with Margaret, view from Schloss Kapfenstein, Vulkanland Steiermark Austria.
This article was written after the judging competition in April 2024, organised by the Sauvignon Collection by Concours Mondial de Bruxelles, while attending as a wine judge during this time.
Ever wanted to visit the not so known wine regions of Austria, take a tour through Styria’s Vulkanland, I’ll promise you it is most definitely worth the visit. Exploring Vulkanland in Steiermark is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a region where tradition meets innovation, and where the unique volcanic terroir creates wines of exceptional character. Visiting Vulkanland is not just about tasting wines; it’s about experiencing the rich history, stunning landscapes, and passionate craftsmanship that define this unique region. Each of these wineries offers something special, whether it’s the breathtaking views, the warm hospitality, or the exquisite wines themselves. A trip to Vulkanland promises to be a memorable exploration, I promise you, of one of Austria’s most exciting wine regions if you ask me. Let me share some wineries that you can visit, to decide for yourself weather it is as great as I tell you it is. I had the ability to taste many of their wines when attending the region. So, it almost seems fair that I share them with you. Here are some of the top wineries to visit, each offering a distinct experience.
Image Source: Wine with Margaret
1. Weingut Krispel – Eruption Wines
I had the utmost pleasure to visit this incredible, state of the art winery that sets your wildest dreams on fire.
Location: Hof bei Straden, Vulkanland Steiermark
Why a must visit: Krispel is a standout not only for its excellent wines but also for its gourmet food offerings. Known for producing high-quality red wines and aromatic whites, Krispel also raises Mangalitza pigs, which are a key part of their unique culinary experience. The combination of fine wine and local delicacies makes this a highlight of any visit to Vulkanland. And they are part of the Eruption Wine Classification.
Experience: Wine tastings paired with local delicacies, farm-to-table dining experiences, and vineyard tours.
Contact: Go to their website.
Image Source: Wine with Margaret
2. Weingut Müller – Eruption Wines
Location: Tieschen, Vulkanland Steiermark
Why a must visit: Weingut Müller is a family-run estate known for its commitment to quality and tradition. The winery produces a range of expressive wines, particularly focusing on regional varietals like Sauvignon Blanc and Morillon. Their attention to detail and passion for winemaking make it a must-visit for those looking to experience authentic Vulkanland wines.
Experience: Intimate tastings in their cozy tasting room, vineyard tours, and insights into traditional winemaking practices.
Contact: Go to their website.
3. Weinschloss Thaller – Eruption Wines
Location: Maierhofbergen, Vulkanland Steiermark
Why a must visit: Thaller is not just a winery but also a castle, offering a unique blend of history and winemaking. The estate is famous for its broad range of wines, from crisp whites to robust reds, all crafted with a deep respect for the region’s terroir. The picturesque castle setting adds an element of grandeur to your visit.
Experience: Wine tastings in a castle, guided tours of the historic estate, and the opportunity to explore their diverse wine portfolio.
Contact: Go to their website.
4. Weingut Hutter – Eruption Wines
Location: Klöch, Vulkanland Steiermark
Why a must visit: Weingut Hutter is known for its distinctive wines, particularly those made from the region’s signature varietals. The estate prides itself on producing wines that are a true expression of the volcanic soils of Klöch, offering a tasting experience that highlights the minerality and complexity of Vulkanland wines.
Experience: Focused tastings that highlight the terroir, vineyard walks, and personal interaction with the winemakers.
Contact: Go to their website.
5. Weingut Pfeiffer – Eruption Wines
Location: St. Anna am Aigen, Vulkanland Steiermark
Why a must visit: Weingut Pfeiffer is a winery that combines tradition with modernity, offering a range of wines that are both innovative and true to the region’s roots. Their whites, particularly Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Blanc, are celebrated for their balance and clarity, reflecting the unique terroir of St. Anna am Aigen.
Experience: Modern tasting facilities, educational vineyard tours, and a focus on sustainable winemaking practices.
Contact: Go to their website.
You can’t leave Vulkanland, without bringing a visit to the following wineries, who might not be part of the Eruption Wine Classification, but they are one of the most profound in Vulkanland has to offer, wineries that fall under the STK-Classification.
6. Weingut Neumeister
Location: Straden, Vulkanland Steiermark
Why a must visit: Weingut Neumeister is a pioneer in sustainable winemaking, with a focus on producing wines that are both pure and precise. Their Sauvignon Blanc and Morillon are particularly noteworthy, showcasing the intense minerality and vibrant acidity characteristic of Vulkanland’s volcanic soils. The estate’s commitment to sustainability adds an extra layer of depth to the tasting experience.
Experience: Guided tastings with a focus on terroir, tours of their sustainably managed vineyards, and a relaxing wine terrace with stunning views.
Contact: Go to their website.
Image Source: Wine with Margaret
7. Weingut Winkler-Hermaden
I’ve visited the Weingut Winkler-Hermaden myself and it was an absolute treat to have witnessed this incredible location, at that moment hosting a lot of other wineries from Vulkanland for an overview tasting, showcasing us the incredible versatility of the region and its wines. Another experience I’ll never forget.
Location: Kapfenstein, Vulkanland Steiermark
Why a must visit: Located near the historic Kapfenstein Castle, Weingut Winkler-Hermaden is known for its robust reds and elegant whites, particularly their Traminer, which is often aged in large wooden casks. The winery offers a blend of history and innovation, with wines that are deeply expressive of the region’s volcanic soils.
Experience: Tastings in the atmospheric cellar, visits to the Kapfenstein Castle, and vineyard walks offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Contact: Go to their website.
Image Source: Wine with Margaret
Visiting Schloss Kapfenstein: A Journey Through History and Wine
Last but not least, I have to mention when the day visiting Vulkanland ended at the incredibly static Schloss Kapfenstein, where we had an incredible dinner at the Schloss accompanied by local Austrian music.
Schloss Kapfenstein is more than just a historic castle; it's a destination that seamlessly blends the rich heritage of the region with the finest of Vulkanland’s winemaking traditions. Nestled on a volcanic outcrop in the picturesque village of Kapfenstein, this castle offers visitors an immersive experience that combines history, breathtaking views, and exceptional wines.
Little History and Architecture to those interested
Schloss Kapfenstein dates to the 11th century and has been owned by the Winkler-Hermaden family since 1898. Originally built as a fortification, the castle has seen centuries of transformation, from medieval fortress to a Renaissance manor and now to a charming, family- run hotel and winery. Its architecture reflects this long history, with features like thick stone walls, ancient towers, and a quaint chapel that transport visitors back in time.
Image Source: Wine with Margaret
The Winkler-Hermaden Winery
One of the highlights of visiting Schloss Kapfenstein is the opportunity to explore the Winkler- Hermaden winery, which is part of the castle’ estate. The Winkler-Hermaden family is renowned for producing wines that are deeply connected to the volcanic terroir of the region. Their vineyard holdings are primarily planted with Traminer, Sauvignon Blanc, and red varietals such as Zweigelt and Blauer Wildbacher.
A visit to the winery allows guests to tour the historic wine cellar, where the wines are aged in large wooden casks, adding complexity and depth to the flavours. The winery is particularly famous for its Traminer, which is often described as having a rich, aromatic profile with a subtle spiciness, reflecting the volcanic soil in which the grapes are grown.
Image Source: Wine with Margaret
Wine Tastings and Tours
Visitors to Schloss Kapfenstein can enjoy a range of wine tasting experiences. The tastings typically include a selection of the estate’s finest wines, offering a deep dive into the unique characteristics of the Vulkanland terroir. Guided tours of the vineyards and cellars provide insight into the winemaking process, from grape to glass.
The tasting room, located within the castle, offers stunning views over the rolling hills of Vulkanland, making it a perfect spot to relax and savour their wines. For those interested in a more in-depth experience, private tastings with a member of the Winkler-Hermaden family can also be arranged, providing a personalised touch and deeper understanding of the wines and the history of the estate.
Image Source: Wine with Margaret
Dining at Schloss Kapfenstein
The castle is also home to an acclaimed restaurant that emphasises local and seasonal ingredients, many of which are sourced from the estate’s own gardens. And I was so lucky to have tasted some of their wonderful meals. The menu is designed to complement the wines produced by the Winkler-Hermaden winery, offering a true farm-to-table dining experience. Signature dishes often include regional specialties like Styrian beef, the Styrian pumpkin seed oil, and dishes made with locally sourced wild game.
Dining at the castle’s restaurant is not just a meal; it’s a true experience. You can enjoy their food in the elegant dining rooms or, weather permitting, on the terrace overlooking the vineyards and the distant landscapes of Vulkanland and neighbouring Slovenia.
Image Source: Wine with Margaret, terras views from Schloss Kapfenstein
Accommodation
For those wishing to extend their visit, Schloss Kapfenstein offers charming accommodations within the castle itself. The rooms are individually decorated, maintaining the historic charm of the castle while providing modern comforts. Staying overnight allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the peaceful, historic atmosphere of the castle, and to explore the surrounding area at a leisurely pace.
Exploring the Surroundings
Beyond the castle and winery, the area around Kapfenstein offers plenty to explore. The scenic hiking trails that wind through the volcanic hills is perfect for those looking to experience the natural beauty of the region. The nearby towns and villages also host a variety of cultural and culinary attractions, from local markets to traditional Styrian festivals.
Curated Wine Wonderings Through Vulkanland a Visit Worth Remembering
Each of these wineries offers a unique window into the world of Vulkanland winemaking, from the historic elegance of Weingut Thaller to the sustainable practices at Weingut Neumeister, and the gourmet experience at Weingut Krispel. Whether you’re drawn to the robust reds, crisp whites, or the region’s rich history and stunning landscapes, a visit to these wineries promises to be a deeply rewarding exploration of one of Austria’s most distinctive wine regions, and I can know.
Visiting Schloss Kapfenstein is more than just a trip to a winery; it's an all-encompassing experience that brings together history, culture, gastronomy, and, of course, exceptional wines. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a serene escape in the Austrian countryside, Schloss Kapfenstein offers something for everyone. The combination of its rich history, stunning location, and world-class wines makes it a must-visit destination in Vulkanland, Steiermark.
Let me know when you’ve visited the region, I would be delighted to hear, how your experience was.