Ewald Tscheppe — Natural Winemaker, Weingut Werlitsch

Ewald Tscheppe is a leading figure in Austria's natural wine movement, known for his biodynamic practices and minimal-intervention winemaking. Taking over his family's estate at the age of 26, Ewald has transformed Weingut Werlitsch into a benchmark for expressive, terroir-driven wines in southern Styria.

🌿 Philosophy & Practices

Ewald's winemaking philosophy is rooted in a deep respect for nature. He emphasizes the importance of soil health, biodiversity, and minimal intervention in both the vineyard and cellar. His approach includes hand-harvesting, spontaneous fermentation, and the use of minimal sulfur, allowing the wines to express their true character.

🍇 Vineyards & Terroir

The estate spans approximately 18 hectares, with 12.5 hectares planted to vineyards. The steep, rolling hills of the region, composed of marl soils known as Opok, provide a challenging yet rewarding environment for viticulture. Ewald divides his vineyards into three categories based on elevation and soil composition, producing distinct cuvées that showcase the unique terroir of each site.

🍷 Winemaking Style

Ewald specializes in white wines, predominantly from Sauvignon Blanc and Morillon (a local biotype of Chardonnay). His wines are characterized by their depth, complexity, and balance, often undergoing extended lees contact and minimal sulfur usage. Notable cuvées include the Ex Vero series, each representing different vineyard parcels, and the Glück and Freude orange wines, which undergo extended skin contact to impart additional texture and flavor.

🌱 Biodynamic & Ecological Practices

Certified biodynamic by Demeter, the estate operates with a holistic approach to farming. Ewald focuses on creating a balanced ecosystem within the vineyard, promoting soil vitality, and fostering biodiversity. This commitment to ecological sustainability ensures the production of healthy, expressive grapes that form the foundation of his exceptional wines.