Producer Article
Weingut Hirsch
Last edited on 1/22/2021 by LindsayM
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Hirsch Vineyards, Kamptal Austria
Regarded as one of the most dynamic and engaging young winemakers in Austria, Johannes Hirsch is well placed to further the evolution of Austrian wine. With access to some of the finest vineyards in the Kamptal region, a dedicated approach to viticulture, and incredible attention to detail, innovative and adventurous spirit, making this one of the most exciting estates in Austria. Although they are located in a relatively small viticultural area, the vineyards Johannes works with are incredibly diverse. From the Lamm vineyard (south-facing slopes with soil composed of löss and loam), to the Heiligenstein vineyard (a bowl-shaped vineyard with southern exposure and conglomerate soils of desert sandstone embedded with decomposed volcanic and carbonized vegetation), to the Gaisberg vineyard (soils of fertile brown earth and crystalline rock), use of biodynamic practices allows him to get the best of his raw materials. In the cellars a fairly traditional approach is maintained. Fermentations are achieved through ambient yeasts, and wines are kept separate with very little blending, the vineyard is the most important expression. Johannes was a very early adopter of stelvin closures in the country, and his confidence has been validated by a recent study that confirms not only the quality of the seal but also the aging abilities. A respect for nature is coupled with an intricate knowledge of bio-dynamic practices.
Hirsch Vineyards, Kamptal Austria
Regarded as one of the most dynamic and engaging young winemakers in Austria, Johannes Hirsch is well placed to further the evolution of Austrian wine. With access to some of the finest vineyards in the Kamptal region, a dedicated approach to viticulture, and incredible attention to detail, innovative and adventurous spirit, making this one of the most exciting estates in Austria. Although they are located in a relatively small viticultural area, the vineyards Johannes works with are incredibly diverse. From the Lamm vineyard (south-facing slopes with soil composed of löss and loam), to the Heiligenstein vineyard (a bowl-shaped vineyard with southern exposure and conglomerate soils of desert sandstone embedded with decomposed volcanic and carbonized vegetation), to the Gaisberg vineyard (soils of fertile brown earth and crystalline rock), use of biodynamic practices allows him to get the best of his raw materials. In the cellars a fairly traditional approach is maintained. Fermentations are achieved through ambient yeasts, and wines are kept separate with very little blending, the vineyard is the most important expression. Johannes was a very early adopter of stelvin closures in the country, and his confidence has been validated by a recent study that confirms not only the quality of the seal but also the aging abilities. A respect for nature is coupled with an intricate knowledge of bio-dynamic practices.