The History of a Passion
People have started to grow grapevines in Carinthia some 1,200 years ago. Back then, it was the church which brought the art of winemaking to all kinds of regions. Viticulture was first mentioned in a document from 822 AD, recording it around the abbeys of Arnoldstein, Millstatt, Ossiach, Viktring, St. Georgen am Längsee, Griffen, Eberndorf, St. Paul and in Wolfsberg, which belonged to the Prince-Bishopric of Bamberg back then.
Starting from the 16th century, wine was primarily produced in the Lavanttal and Jauntal valleys. With around 400 hectares under vine, this alcoholic drink has become extremely popular long before beer started to have an even greater significance. Since wine was subject to heavy taxation during the 18th century, winemaking has lost its appeal. Many years later, the fungal disease “Plasmopara viticola” destroyed much of the harvest.
Only in 1972, after decades, the “viticultural pioneer” Herbert Gartner planted the first grapevines in the Lavanttal valley. He laid the foundations for a trend which continues to grow up to this day. There are quite a few regions suitable for growing grapevines throughout Carinthia. From the Nockberge region and the hills surrounding Lake Millstättersee to Central Carinthia, Lake Wörthersee, the Carnica region and the Rosental valley - the locals cultivate their vineyards with great dedication and passion.
Sun in the Glass: Where It Tastes Like Holiday
ESSENTIAL CLASSICS AND FINE WINES FOR ANY DAY OF THE YEAR
In Carinthia, winegrowing is only possible at an altitude of 400m to 900m due to the geographic location - in much higher areas than in most other wine regions in Austria.
Here, south of the Alpine divide, grapevines flourish thanks to the slightly Mediterranean climate. The soils are very different depending on the region. The vineyards are planted on hillsides and steep hillsides facing towards the south and the south-west. The Alpine divide serves as a barrier that protects the sensitive plants from Atlantic and Arctic climatic influences. Whereas in spring, the cold air from the mountains has an impact on vegetation growth, the high temperatures and plenty of sunshine make up for it in summer.
The mild, dry weather in late summer and autumn is ideal for harvesting the grapes. White varieties, in particular Chardonnay, Pinot blanc and Riesling, make up 80% of the harvest. Zweigelt, Pinot noir and Merlot are significant red varieties.
In total, Carinthia produces of wine on an area of only 145 hectares. In recent years, wines from Carinthia have been turning heads at national or even international competitions. Great reviews are the best proof of the high quality.
Where Icelandic Horses Tölt Past a Vineyard on the Mountain
THE GREATEST HAPPINESS: HORSE-RIDING AND WINE
Perched on the Pollenitz, the mountain next to Feldkirchen, the Köck family grows grapevines. The farm is set in the Nockberge region at an altitude of 700m where clear skies prevail when a blanket of fog covers the low-lying areas. People do things differently here. Gerhard Köck, the winemaker, has his very own philosophy. In his vineyards, the grapes can take all the time they need to ripen. He’s putting a great emphasis on keeping it natural. The winegrower is striving to minimise environmental impact by not using pesticides. It goes without saying that the certified organic vineyards with the varieties “Solaris” and “Muscaris” are his pride and joy.
Right next to the vineyard, the Köck family runs a horse farm with 40 Icelandic horses to ride - for children, teenagers and adults. The mountains and Lake Ossiacher See are the most spectacular backdrop. In Feldkirchen, you can also find the greatest happiness in the holiday apartments including bedrooms and living rooms, in the petting zoo, at the barbecue or with a glass of fine wine from Carinthia.
A Wine Experience at Every Level: Längseeleit’n
WINE AND SPA BREAK GO HAND IN HAND
At the beginning of May 2015, the Fellner family planted approx. 5,000 grapevines on a meadow with a 15% incline, the Längseeleit’n. In the local dialect, the term “Leit’n” means “slope”. Today, 2,000 grapevines of the varieties Pinot noir and Blauer Wildbacher grow and flourish on the hillside.
Set between Lake Längsee and St. George’s Abbey, the vineyard is not only the origin of organic wines. It’s also an oasis of well-being. During your stay here, you can relax in the Infrared sauna or the pergola covered with grapevines and take in a stunning lake view.
The firewater cup is set in the vineyard. Here, wine and spa break go hand in hand. Forest bathing in our private forest, a playhouse for children, a themed walk with a focus on mindfulness and a snack garden - this is the perfect place to energise and recharge your batteries. Check in, step inside the rooms and suites at Längseeleit’n and take some time off. This is your very special break. Nurture your body, mind, soul and palate. They will appreciate it.
Wine and Experiences of Farm Life
AN INDULGENT BREAK BETWEEN CARINTHIA’S LAKES
Set in an idyllic location between Lake Wörthersee, Klagenfurt and the Rosental valley, the farm “Pleschinhof” is a great place to experience farm life, right next to Carinthia’s lakes. As you stay with the Schöffmann family above the town of Velden, you can take in a breath-taking panoramic view extending to the Karawanks and the Julian Alps. Immerse yourself in farm life, get to know the daily tasks and disconnect from the bustle of everyday life.
Here, at an altitude of 900m, the farmers from the Pleschinhof grow wine, making it one of the highest vineyards in Carinthia. It started with cider and apple juice. In 2000, the family took the chance and started to grow grapevines. The white and red varieties make a farm holiday an even more holistic experience for guests and especially for food lovers. After an exciting day exploring the surroundings, swimming, hiking and relaxing in a spa, you can sit down and enjoy a glass of fine in peace and quiet. A farm holiday at its best!
In 2000, I had the idea to grow grapevines at an altitude of 900m. I'm a person who's very tempted to do things that are impossible, according to others.
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FARM HOLIDAYS IN CARINTHIA
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