Wachstum Koenig

Wachstum Koenig" is a winery run by brothers Herbert and Karl-Heinz König in Southern Styria, Austria. The name translates to "Growth König," a nod to their family's long history as agricultural pioneers and their commitment to natural processes.

Region

The winery is located in the Sausal valley within Southern Styria. The vineyards are on a hill called "Kittenberg," which is known for its steep slopes and unique geological makeup. The soil is a mix of schist, gneiss, and limestone, which imparts a distinctive mineral character to the wines. The region's climate is influenced by both the cool air from the Alps and warmer, Pannonian breezes, creating a perfect balance for slow, even ripening.

Grapes Used

Wachstum Koenig focuses on the classic white grapes of the region and is also known for its unique fruit beverages.

  • White Grapes: 🥂 Welschriesling, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Blanc (Weißburgunder). They also work with Morillon (Chardonnay) and Muskateller.

  • Fruit: In addition to grapes, they produce natural juices from old orchards, including pears, cherries, and quinces.

Representative Wines and Philosophy

The Königs' philosophy is centered on biodynamic viticulture and a minimalist, hands-off approach in the cellar. Their grandfather was an agricultural pioneer who wrote books on soil composition, a legacy the brothers carry forward. They are guided by a deep respect for the land and the natural process of growth.

  • Low Intervention: They practice spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts, use no pumps, and avoid filtering or fining the wines.

  • Extended Aging: Their wines are aged for a long time, typically two to three years, in used oak barrels and amphorae.

  • No Sulfur: Many of their wines are made with zero added sulfur, a hallmark of their commitment to purity and authenticity.

  • Focus on Terroir: Their wines are named to reflect the specific vineyard plot and style, like the "Wiese" (meadow) series, which showcases their light, fresh style.

  • Fruit Juices: Their natural fruit juices are a key part of their portfolio, made from 100-year-old orchards. They are cold-pressed, unfiltered, and made without any additives, much like their wines.

 

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