“Gold in a glass – from the very top”

Norbert Gummerer and his Gummererhof at 750 meters

Anyone who meets Norbert Gummerer quickly realizes: This isn’t someone who makes big speeches – but someone who knows what he’s doing. High above Tramin, at 750 meters above sea level, Norbert and his family manage the Gummererhof – the highest-altitude winery in Tramin. It is also probably the only Gewürztraminer variety cultivated at 750 meters in Europe.

The location is exceptional – steep slopes with gradients of up to 50 degrees, clayey soils, cool nights, and plenty of sunshine. “We’re about ten days later than down in the valley,” explains Norbert. “But that’s precisely what gives the wine its freshness, its clear acidity.” His Gewürztraminer isn’t powerful, but rather fine, straightforward, with typical aromatics – but “more lean than opulent.” The alcohol content also remains low: “Ours rarely has more than 14.5 percent – I honestly prefer that.”

From Pergl to Espalier

Working at these altitudes is arduous. For decades, the vineyards were built using classic terraced vines and Pergl, but Norbert has changed: “We now cultivate in a sloped line, using espaliers. This protects the vines, promotes water management—and is simply more practical for us.”

Machinery can only be used to a limited extent here. Only recently has a tracked vehicle been added to support the arduous manual labor on the steep slopes. Nevertheless, most of the work remains manual—from pruning to harvesting. “You just have to do every step yourself. But then you know what you’re putting into your glass.”

One of the smallest wineries in South Tyrol

The Gummererhof farm currently covers approximately 3.5 hectares. Of these, around 1.5 hectares are used to produce vines – Pinot Blanc, Gewürztraminer, and Diolinoir. Three other varieties – Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Sauvignon – are cultivated but not processed in-house. “That yields around 3,000 to 5,000 bottles annually – making us one of the smallest wineries in South Tyrol,” says Norbert with a quiet smile.

And yet, each wine has character: shaped by the altitude, the slope, the soil – and by the decision to produce independently and control every step himself. Norbert not only manages the farm, but also the cellar and the mountain inn. “It’s not just about the grapes. It’s about the entire journey. When the wine in the glass reflects what we’ve experienced – then it’s perfect.”

A family business with history and attitude

The farm itself has a long history. Purchased by the great-grandfather in 1933, it has been run for generations. His grandmother opened the mountain inn in 1967, and his father laid the foundation for today’s business. “We are a closed farm with an integrated business – that’s not often the case,” says Norbert. Today, the farm is both a working farm and a place to host.

“We have remained true to agriculture, but innovation is important – and part of it.”

We live with the seasons but think about tomorrow. Norbert says: “We are close to nature, down-to-earth – but not backward.” He tests new varieties, closely monitors climate change, and considers small adjustments. Nevertheless, his principle remains clear: Quality comes from calm and care – not from speed.

Gummererhof Experience

Those who visit the private winery Gummererhof today don’t just come for a wine tasting. The ride up, past lush forests and vineyards, is an experience in itself. It’s a place for hikers, for those seeking peace and quiet – even for families with strollers exploring the forest path. E-bike riders will appreciate the dedicated charging station – and a glass of wine with a view.

In the mountain inn Gummererhof, guests are treated to products from the farm – on the terrace with a view over the vineyards, the forests, and far beyond to Lake Kaltern. “Most people stay longer than they intended,” says Norbert with a grin. And those who take a wine tour not only get information, but also insights – into the philosophy, practice, the farm, and personality.

Staying honest – also in the future

Three businesses work closely together at the Gummererhof today – agriculture, winery, and hospitality. Norbert is open to development, but also clear:

“At some point, we need to add a little more quality of life. We’ve built a lot, and now we need room to enjoy ourselves.”

He doesn’t dream of expansion, but of a harmonious continuation. Perhaps with more time for his family, perhaps with guests who appreciate the mountain air as much as he does.
“In the end, it’s all about connection,” says Norbert. “Between the landscape, nature, people, and wine.” And when you raise your glass, you can taste how much work, peace, and mountain air lie within – perhaps a little steeper than elsewhere. But also a little closer to what matters.