Rametz Castle

Here, the vines thrive perfectly: There is a Mediterranean climate, protection from harsh winds from the mountains and water-permeable soils. The owners of Rametz Castle, the Schmid family, purposely chose the typical vine arbour cultivation method for the 10 hectares of vineyards. A small idyll that also houses a museum: The Wine Museum was established in 1980 on the ground floor and in the cellars and shows how vine cultivation, pest control and transport work.

The history of the castle itself dates back to 1227 AD. Closely connected to this is winegrowing, because centuries ago people were already writing about the local wine culture on Rametz Castle. Riesling, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon were planted around the castle and - what few people know - the first Pinot Noir vine in South Tyrol. It was the year 1860, a time when Merano was famous as a spa town and aristocrats such as King Albert of Saxony, King Alexander of Serbia and Empress Sissi of Austria lodged at Rametz Castle during their spa stays.

In addition to the Wine Museum, Rametz today also has a vinotheque offering wines, sparkling wines, grappas and liqueurs as well as Kaiserspeck bacon from its own production. Also available is a range of local brittle bread - the traditional Schüttelbrot - olive oils from various regions of Italy, balsamic vinegar from Modena, herb mixtures and other specialities. The "Tiroler Weinhaus" in Tirolo and a restaurant are also part of Rametz. In 2018, three sparkling wines from Rametz Castle were given "The WineHunter Award". How can it be reached? The impressive building is located in Via Labers 4 in Maia Alta (Obermais), parking spaces are available for visitors.