Alois Lageder

Johann Lageder established the estate in 1823 as a wine merchant business in Bolzano. The pivotal shift from merchant to producer came in 1934, when Johann's great-grandson Alois purchased the Löwengang wine estate in Magrè. In the 1970s, Alois IV took control and raised quality standards in collaboration with oenologist Luis von Dellemann. The winery building was renovated in 1995 as a sustainable, eco-friendly facility, and biodynamic farming began in 2004. The sixth generation, led by Alois Clemens Lageder and his two sisters, now manages the estate and secured full Demeter Biodynamic certification in 2024.

• Founded 1823 in Bolzano as a wine merchant operation
• Löwengang estate in Magrè acquired in 1934, marking the shift to estate production
• Biodynamic farming launched in 2004; Demeter certified in 2024
• Sixth generation now leads the estate under Alois Clemens Lageder

Alois Lageder pioneered biodynamic farming in Alto Adige, beginning the transition in 2004 and achieving full Demeter certification in 2024. All 55 hectares of estate vineyards are farmed organically or biodynamically, and over 50% of the approximately 80-90 partner growers had converted to organic or biodynamic practices by 2024. The estate practices traditional transhumance, with livestock grazing the vineyards in autumn and winter. The winery facility runs on renewable energy from solar, water, and geothermal sources. The estate motto, 'Diversity is Key,' reflects both agricultural philosophy and the breadth of grape varieties cultivated.

• Pioneered biodynamic viticulture in Alto Adige starting in 2004
• Full Demeter Biodynamic certification achieved in 2024
• Traditional transhumance practiced with livestock grazing vineyards seasonally
• Over 50% of partner growers organic or biodynamic by 2024

The estate vineyards cover 55 hectares in Magrè in the southern part of Alto Adige, with an additional approximately 100 hectares managed through collaborations with around 80-90 partner growers. Soils are chalky and gravelly, well-suited to the aromatic white varieties that define the region. The alpine climate brings microclimatic contrasts, with cool winds from adjacent canyons moderating temperatures and preserving acidity and aromatic intensity in the fruit. The estate cultivates 30 grape varieties, spanning aromatic whites, international varieties, and local red grapes.

• Chalky, gravelly soils underpin the estate's vineyard character
• Alpine climate with cool canyon winds preserves freshness and aromatics
• 30 grape varieties grown across estate and partner vineyards
• Partner grower network adds approximately 100 hectares to the estate's total holdings

Alois Lageder produces three main wine lines: Classical Grape Varietals, Compositions, and Crus (Masterpieces). The estate is best known for fresh, lively, aromatic whites and elegant reds that reflect the diversity of Alto Adige. The flagship Löwengang Chardonnay, introduced in 1984, was the first white wine from the region to be positioned on the international market. An experimental line called 'Comets' features hand-labeled bottles marked with staff thumbprints, underscoring the estate's innovative spirit. Grapes grown include Pinot Grigio, Gewürztraminer, Riesling, Lagrein, Pinot Noir, Schiava, and many others.

• Three wine lines: Classical Grape Varietals, Compositions, and Crus (Masterpieces)
• Löwengang Chardonnay (1984) was the region's first internationally positioned white wine
• Experimental 'Comets' line features hand-labeled bottles with staff thumbprints
• Portfolio spans aromatic whites, international varieties, and Alto Adige native reds