Sustainability AND VISION FOR THE FUTURE

SETTING GOALS AND CREATING PRECEDENTS

Elena Walch values nature, respects it, and wants to pass it on in beauty to the next generation. Sustainable work is at the heart of the company’s philosophy for years. The path to sustainability is not an overnight change, but is perceived as a process and an apprenticeship. The following measures have been gradually enforced in many areas of the company so that the work is not based on a handful of strict rules, but rather the awareness of everyone is trained in this new direction.

"VIVA" CERTIFICATION

In 2024, Elena Walch was awarded the official certification “VIVA - sustainability in the Italian wine sector" for the organisation indicators water, air, and territory by the Ministry of Environment and Energy Security. The certificate has been renewed since. 
Download the certificate

REDUCTION OF CO2 FOOTPRINT

A CO2 report (carbon footprint) prepared in 2022 by the external, specialized eco-institute "Ökoinstitut Alto Adige" allows us a detailed insight into the various areas of our estate for the year 2021. In addition, the CO2 analysis offers continued improvement and the constant search for new accents in order to further reduce our carbon footprint. Hecently we have introduced a "lightweight" bottle of 395g for our Selezione wines, beginning with vintage 2024.

ONLY EXCELLENT VINEYARDS BRING FORTH FIRST CLASS WINES

We promote biodiversity in its diversity. Grass between the vine rows are alternately rolled instead of cut. Legumes and our own compost increase the nitrogen balance and humus content of the soil.

THE FINAL GOAL

To be a “good” company that knows how to protect the environment we are in for future generations. The environment is an important part of our work: we are convinced that we can do something good here, with the quality of our wines at the forefront of our thoughts.

CONCRETE ACCENTS FOR SUSTAINABLE WORK

IN THE VINEYARD

  • Sowing legumes in vineyards maintains and promotes soil fertility, while increasing root space and allowing faster and deeper root growth. In addition, the roots provide the soil with nutrients, thus enriching insect biodiversity and intensifying the production of organic matter. 
  • Thanks to the grassing, the minerals and the resulting nitrogen content contribute to a healthy growth of the vines. 
  •  A private compost in Castel Ringberg for the improvement of the humus content of the soil and the stimulation of the microbiological activity of the soil. 
  • Rolling or alternate mowing of the rows to maintain the nitrogen content in the soil. The resulting “green carpet” has a positive effect on the water balance of the vineyard and provides an additional habitat for insects and small animals. 
  • The vineyards are regularly mulched in alternating rows to ehance long-term soil fertility. 
  • Use of exclusively water-saving drip irrigation systems. In combination with our weather stations with soil probes, irrigation can be used in a targeted manner when the vines need it. 
  • Weather and infection monitoring systems monitor the health of the vineyard and adjust interventions, which become preventive rather than curative. 
  • Continuous analysis of the water requirements of the vines through several weather stations in the vineyards. 
  • Defoliation of the vines to increase aeration and thus reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
  • Cultivation of two disease-robust PIWI varieties: Bronner and Souvignier Gris. 
  • Promotion of biodiversity through the preservation of dry-stone walls and hedges as habitats for animals and the strategic planting of fruit trees
  • Hosting bug hotels in the vineyards for pollination of the surrounding trees. 
  • Gentle tree pruning according to the principles of "Simonit & Sirch": Due to the natural lignification of the tree, no large wounds are created during pruning and the lymphatic system is protected. 
  •  All grapes are carefully harvested by hand.

IN THE WINE CELLAR

  • Coverage of an important part of our of electricity consumption with a photovoltaic system (solar energy). 
  • Use, in parts, of gravity to decant or move grapes and must.
  • The underground wine cellar naturally benefits from the cool temperatures of the surrounding ground, helping to reduce the energy required for cooling.
  • Use of barrels and barriques from sustainable cultivations (FSC certified).

IN PACKAGING

  • Use of mostly unbleached and uncolored corks. 
  • Use of 100% recyclable capsules. 
  • Use of a lightweight (395g) glass bottle for “Selezione” wines beginning with vintage 2024.
  • Carton boxes made in large parts out of recycled paper with a natural interior (Havannah).

OTHER APPLICATIONS

  • The preservation of natural green spaces is important to us: The estate is in possession of over 7 ha of forest area.
  • Smoking ban in the indoor and outdoor areas of the winery, for employees and guests. 
  • In our garden bistrot and the Castel Ringberg manor, attention is paid to regional food. In addition, certain specialties are also offered from outside, such as French cheese. 
  • Preservation and development of cultural landscapes: In addition to the Castel Ringberg Castle and the historic "Ansitz Walch", other listed buildings also belong to our estate. They are all maintained to the latest standards in order to preserve this important part of South Tyrolean culture for the future.
  • Ski trips, hiking excursions, and traditional Törggelen gatherings - we highly value team building!