🌿 BioWeinGut Lehner (Gols / Neusiedlersee / Burgenland, Austria)

BioWeinGut Lehner is a multi-generational family estate located in Gols, a village recognized as a stronghold for biodynamic farming in the Neusiedlersee area of Burgenland. While the family historically ran a mixed farm, the focus is now squarely on wine, with children Sebastian and Victoria taking the lead, supported by their parents, Sigrid and Erwin Lehner.

Bio-Philosophy: Deep Conviction

The Lehner family's journey is defined by a deep, principled commitment to ecology and the rhythms of nature:

• Biodynamic Certification: The estate was certified Organic in 2015 and transitioned fully to Demeter-certified biodynamic farming in 2019. Sigrid Lehner is a driving force behind this commitment, viewing it as the best way to harmonize with the natural landscape.

• Focus on the Soil: Their core belief is that everything comes from the soil. They prioritize building a living, vibrant foundation for the vines, avoiding herbicides and chemical sprays, and fostering biodiversity with interplanted fruit trees, shrubs, and vegetable patches.

• Terroir: The 10 hectares of vineyards benefit from the warm Pannonian climate influenced by the Neusiedlersee. The sandy-silty soils, particularly in top sites like Ungerberg and Altenberg, are excellent at retaining and releasing water, leading to fully ripe, aromatic grapes.

Winemaking: Untouched Beauty

In the cellar, the philosophy of respect and minimal intervention continues, allowing the unique character of the Burgenland grapes to shine:

• Spontaneity: Wines are typically spontaneously fermented using native yeasts, which Sebastian Lehner emphasizes gives the wines more complex character and depth.

• Minimal Intervention: The wines are treated gently, with Erwin Lehner focusing on supporting the unique characteristics of each wine without forcing change. Many of their wines are bottled unadorned (ungeschönt)—unfiltered and with little to no added sulfur.

• Signature Varieties: Their portfolio includes classics like Blaufränkisch and Weißburgunder (Pinot Blanc), alongside the indigenous Neuburger and Grüner Veltliner.

• Experimental Wines: They produce experimental, low-intervention wines with poetic names like 'Luft & Leben'and 'Wesen & Substanz,' which often include Orange Wines (skin-contact whites) that reflect their forward-thinking approach.

The BioWeinGut Lehner produces wines that are seen as authentic, personal, and a pure reflection of their family's dedication to the land. The family also operates LEHNERs faire WIRTSCHAFT, an on-site bio-Heuriger (wine tavern) serving regional cuisine.