Malat

Dating from 1722, with vineyards in the regions of Kremstal and Wachau.Winemaker Michael Malat, believes in the natural purity of wine, thereby not changing the profile of the grape. He uses no irrigation, planting his vines intensively, minerality coming from the terroir. He uses no Botrytis, and if present he will take it out. Natural fermentation needs cloudiness, nutrients and yeasts; you can’t do this with botrytis. An abundance of small tanks in the winery, allow all blocks to be fermented separately. Michael reckons Pinot Noir, Riesling and Chardonnay are the varietal that will thrive in future years, climate change being an important factor.

Kremstal

AUSTRIA

Origin authentic into the glass.

No watering.

No additives.

No compromises.

“We are not concerned with more profit if we were to produce less elaborately.But because someone says in the end: it tastes great.”

– Michael Malat

Viticulture

A malate vineyard does not receive artificial irrigation if it is not necessary. As a result, the yields are lower, especially if it gets drier and hotter, as in recent years. However, this forces the vines to root more and more in the depths. The tips can protrude up to thirty meters deep into the earth. The more stony the soil, the longer it naturally takes for the tips to make their way. Compared to artificially irrigated vines, whose roots remain on the surface and grow in the width in order to be able to absorb as much water as possible, our vines absorb nutrients and minerals in a much higher amount and variety. This results in a profound history of origin in the glass, whereby our task is to respond to each year as it is necessary. “Because every vintage is different, there is no recipe,” explains Michael Malat. “In upcoming decisions, the experiences of the predecessors are very helpful. Maybe someone has had a similar situation, tried something – and the result has been handed down.” Of course, there is no place in viticulture for quick experiments, or for quick experiments, or to finish what has started today tomorrow. “The harvest only takes place once a year,” explains the winemaker, who also harvests each of his wines himself – just with experience from almost 300 year

Winemaking

The Malat Winery continues its pursuit of perfection and evolves with the times while keeping an eye on its rich past. Vineyard sites are hand worked, with organic and sustainable practices integral to the winemaking process. A modern boutique hotel opened in 2012, offering guest rooms and dining situated directly upon the beautiful vineyards of this historic and prestigious estate.