Gump (Gumphof)
Gumphof (or, the winery Gump) is nestled in the steep slopes at the entry of the Isarco Valley and its vineyards stretch from an altitude of 350 to 550 metres (1,150-1,800 feet) above sea level. The five hectare (ten acres) are planted with Pinot Blanc, Sauvignon, Gewürztraminer, Schiava and Pinot Noir wines.
The Prackwieser family has owned the Gump Hof for more than 200 years. The building itself, however, goes as far back as 1546. Markus discovered his passion for wine in the mid-90s and took over the family heirloom from his father in the year 2000. His wines have been sought after both nationally and internationally, especially his outstanding Praesulis Selection wine range. The name Praesulis derives from the nearby Castle of Presule.
At an age of 28, Markus Prackwieser started a quiet transformation and has produced his own wine since. His wines have been sought after both nationally and internationally, especially his outstanding Praesulis Selection wine range. The name Praesulis derives from the nearby Castle of Presule.
An Interview with Markus Prackwieser:
Towards the end of the nineties you and your father, Johann Prackwieser started to produce your own wine label. What were your motivations?
The main reason was my passion for wine. I did no longer only want to be involved in viticulture but wanted to make wine. Combining the growing and production of wine is very challenging, even more so in the vertiginous vineyards here at the Gump (Gumphof). If you are so closely involved in the growing of the vinegrapes as I am, you bear the finished product constantly in mind and I wanted to make the wine exactly the way I imagined it to be. I needed to be independent and free to take my decisions and reach my goals, therefore it was just natural to accept the difficult circumstances given by the steepness of the vineyards and realize my dream.
My wines reward me for all the extra work which however has always been a sorce of motivation and a further challenge to me. When it comes to wine passion and professionalism go together and it does not stop raising my interest and enthusiasm.
How would you describe your priorities?
I want to produce authentic wine, wine I can identify with 100%. It is essential to me to get a more in-depth look at the science behind making wine and to update my knowledge to improve my skills. I love to face the challenges and the whole of this flows into my wine. Focusing on the study of the natural circumstances in the vineyards and learning how to involve them in order to support the natural equilibrium, helps to guard nature and makes sure the wine preserves its innate vitality.
What are your plans for the future?
I want to be loyal to my ideals and maintain the balance between tradition and innovation. It is my aim to offer my clients a distinctive, stimulating wine that expresses the place and people who brought it forth. I am always open for new things, keep on updating and developing my abilities, yet I do not wish to expand the winery’s structures too much to avoid losing overall view. The Gump(Gumphof) essentially is a family business and so I am fully aware of all the measurements and operations which have to be taken and carried out. It is my commitment to put in action and answer to all my decisions personally in order to fully identify with my work and wine.