MEINKLANG

Meinklang is a closed-off, self-sufficient biodynamic farm of 2000 hectares, of which 75 hectares are covered with vineyards. It is located in the middle of the National Park Neusiedler See, on the south side of the lake of the same name, bordering Hungary. It is led by three brothers—Lukas, Hannes, and Werner—who are responsible for taking care of the vineyards that extend across the Austrian border, all the way to the extinct Hungarian volcano Somló, where they grow the indigenous varieties Hárslevelű and Juhfark. In the cellar, they work with stainless steel and barrels, but their favourites are concrete eggs, due to their ideal circular shape and amount of micro-oxygenation. Without sharp edges or flat surfaces, the liquid in the concrete eggs moves continuously inside the container, creating a natural vortex. This natural rotation helps develop the wine’s richer body and emphasizes its texture. In addition to vineyards, the farm is home to a herd of Angus and Aubrac cattle, Mangalitsa pigs, horses, sheep, and chickens. Spelt, oats, rye, barley, wheat, millet, corn, buckwheat, a wide selection of vegetables, and apples are grown alongside the vines. One of the prejudices most often associated with organic and biodynamic agriculture is that authenticity and quality cannot be achieved on a larger scale and with larger quantities, and that this will, therefore, always be the responsibility of micro-producers. Yet, the success of the Michlits family tells us precisely the opposite. Yet, even more significant is the fact that this success goes hand in hand with respect, care, as well as a love for all plants, animals, and people in the community.