Location and elevation levels
Großhöflein lies in Burgenland. The vineyards extend along the south and south-eastern slopes of the Leithagebirge, over a narrow plain and as far as the Föllig, which rises from the Wulka plain. They range from about 170 to 325 metres above sea level and are described as the highest vineyard sites in northern Burgenland. In the southern Leithaberg locations, Pannonian air and climate conditions prevail, which benefit viticulture.
Soils and grape varieties
The Leithaberg wine-growing region is characterised by Leithakalk and slate. The Leithakalk formed in an earlier, shallow marine area. In Großhöflein, red grape varieties are grown mainly between 170 and 200 metres above sea level, while above 200 metres white varieties predominate. Important red varieties include Blaufränkisch and Zweigelt; among the white varieties, Chardonnay, Weißburgunder, Neuburger and Welschriesling. Sauvignon Blanc, Gewürztraminer and Muskat Ottonel are considered further local specialities.
Gloria site
The Gloria lies on a south-easterly oriented slope at 300 to 325 metres above sea level. Its calcareous, stony Braunerde soil has a very high proportion of limestone; beneath an upper soil layer about 30 to 40 centimetres thick, limestone bedrock begins. The orientation ensures early warming in the morning and rapid drying of the berries. The adjacent forest has a cooling effect, which means the grapes ripen slowly and yields remain low. The site planted with Chardonnay was first mentioned in documents in 1570.
Viticulture and wine style
The vineyards of Großhöflein were first documented in 1569 in the Forchtensteiner estate register; many historical vineyard names are still in use today. The wines are predominantly dry, fruit-forward and for the most part varietal. The red wines are described as full-bodied and powerful. The Kollwentz estate cultivates 25 hectares, works with soil care and sward management, as well as labour-intensive vine care, and selectively harvests fully ripe, healthy grapes by hand. For the Gloria Chardonnay, twelve months’ ageing in small French oak barrels on the lees are documented, followed by six months on the fine lees in a stainless-steel tank; the yield is 30 hectolitres per hectare.