Old walls, new paths

For centuries, the Kreuzweghof in Eppan has been a place where people live and work. First mentioned in historical records in 1315, the estate, with its sundial dating back to 1546, is closely connected to the von Payr family. Today, Monika von Payr and Hannes Munter continue this story together with their three daughters – deeply rooted in Eppan, yet always open to new paths.

They see the estate not simply as a winery, but as a living organism. Chickens of traditional breeds roam freely between the vine rows, bee colonies find shelter in the vineyard hedges, and a diverse habitat has developed among the vines, vegetable garden and fruit bushes. Their work is centred on an approach to agriculture that follows natural cycles and aims to pass healthy, fertile soil on to future generations.

The vineyards surrounding the estate lie at elevations between 470 and 510 metres above sea level. The well-draining, heat-retaining limestone gravel soils of Eppan-Monte shape the character of the sites, while a higher proportion of clay gives the Pinot Noir additional structure. Warm afternoon winds support the ripening process, while cool evening downdrafts preserve freshness and expressive aromas. The varieties grown are Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Noir and Souvignier Gris.

A small proportion of the grapes is vinified directly at the estate. Three distinctive wines are produced in the historic vaulted cellar: a Chardonnay Riserva and a Pinot Noir Riserva, both matured in French oak, as well as a Souvignier Gris that undergoes spontaneous fermentation in amphora. Hannes Munter draws inspiration from the elegant, finely structured wines of Burgundy, without ever losing sight of their origins in Eppan.