Two of the most interesting estates from whom we purchase wine are Nikolaihof in Austria’s Wachau region and Manincor in Tyrolean Italy. It is likely no coincidence that both not only work Biodynamically, they are both fully integrated Biodynamic properties guided by families which very much walk the Biodynamic walk.
The Enzenberg family has been tied to the Manincor estate since 1662, when a member of the family married a relative of the Hieronymus Manincor, who founded the property in 1602. The Enzenberg family’s connection to winegrowing on the property dates to 1898. The current proprietor, Count Michael Goëss-Enzenberg has administered the property since 1991.
Manincor is not a vast tract of grapegrowing monoculture. The estate includes protected woodlands, meadows and orchards. Hens and sheep graze through the vineyards. Teas, infusions and other herbal remedies are produced from plants grown on the property [similar to the practices employed by the Saahs family at Nikolaihof]. The family is now producing a line of skin care products which derive principally from sap which drips from vines wounds after pruning. The new underground cellar is naturally insulated by the soil. No fuel oil or natural gas are required for heating. In short, Manincor is virtually without equal with regards to their environmental practices.
All of which would be admirable though irrelevant for our purposes, if the wines were not interesting. They are outstanding. The wines reveal a style we greatly appreciate – bell tone clarity, elegance, great complexity, persistence and a high high level of deliciosity. They are exceptional.
“The Count,” as he is referred to by the importer, will be on hand to describe Manincor and its wines on Saturday, October 15 from 2:00 to 4:00. Here is a line-up of the wines we shall be tasting.
2013 Manincor "Contessa Bianco"
2014 Manincor "Eichorn" Pinot Bianco
2015 Manincor "Kelterersee Keil" Schiava
2016 Manincor "Mason" Pinot Nero
2012 Manincor "Rubatsch" Lagrein
2013 Maincor "Conte Rosso"
The price is $20/person, which is refundable with a purchase of any six-bottles of Manincor wines. The price includes snacks. As always, wine club members are allowed one free seat.
Please email alyssa@soifwine.com to reserve a seat.