That a cross between Merzling and GM 6493 (whose parents are Muskat-Ottonel and Zarya Severa) can actually produce a great wine is still somewhat of a mystery. Piwis – fungus-resistant grape varieties – are not yet highly regarded in collective perception. However, thanks to Thomas Niedermayr, this is about to change. In his vineyards, Solaris & Co. are not only grown to avoid the use of pesticides. Beyond responsible farming and a deep understanding of his surroundings, he is also deeply committed to exploring the sensory qualities of these Piwis. To achieve this, he spends every free minute in his vineyards, tending to each vine individually and vinifying with minimal intervention at the highest artisanal level.
His Solaris vines are rooted in the Eppaner Berg, Putschwan, and Kalterer Höhe, in calcareous, often very barren but deep soils. The grapes are whole-cluster pressed and fermented spontaneously. The wine is aged for four months in used oak barrels and an additional eight months in stainless steel tanks, bottled unfiltered.
Style & Aromas: Tighter and more direct than his other two wines. It has a fragrant, floral, cool-fruit aromatic profile. Combines energy with depth and tension with substance. Flows dynamically, vertically, and persistently over the palate.
Data Sheet
Grape Variety: 100% Solaris
Vineyard: Eppan Berg, Putschwan, and Kalterer Höhe. Between 500 and 700 meters above sea level. Clay-rich, calcareous, sometimes very barren, skeletal, and deep soil with a high proportion of white dolomite rock.
Harvest: By hand
Fermentation: Whole-cluster pressing | Wild yeasts | In stainless steel tanks
Aging: 4 months in neutral oak barrels, 8 months in stainless steel tanks; always on the lees.
Filtration: No
SO₂: < 50 mg/l
Alcohol Content: 14% vol
Closure: Screw cap
Drinking Temperature: 10-12°C
Optimal Drinking Window: From now – 2026
Bottle Size and Price per Liter: 0.75 l // €31.87
Philosophy: All winemakers listed by Vinonudo work with compost, organic fertilizers, and natural preparations in their vineyards, avoiding the use of herbicides, pesticides, and synthetic fertilizers.
