Winery Högl

“The Wachau Valley is more than my home. I learned everything here that I am now; here are my roots and my vine.”

The Högl vineyard is located near the Austrian region of Wachau in places where the Spitzer Graben valley opens towards Waldviertel. The vineyard has a cooler climate, which is less mild than that of the nearby Danube. It is the local climate, together with fertile soil made of gneiss, slate, and mica, that is the true reason why the wine from this area is so unique. Just like the wine in every region exhibits its diversity in all aspects and reflects the given natural conditions, the architecture is anchored in this unique place. The landscape is shaped by steep slopes with stone walls. A modern new building serving for wine production and tasting is part of an old yard with farm buildings. The resulting form enhances the place, utilizes its potential, and completes the courtyard. Together with the existing buildings, it creates an inner courtyard that is sheltered from the road and invites rest. The shape of the new structure corresponds to its two functions: production and tasting. The production hall runs alongside the road, while the tasting section is oriented towards the courtyard with its view. The new building is shaped by two completely different entrances. Visitors are welcomed by a gabled wall facing the intimate courtyard. The house strives to integrate into the historical and material environment of Wachau. The heavily plastered walls are inspired by local craftsmanship traditions. The glass sections are shaded by whitened wooden slats that account for their irregular growth. The roof is a contemporary response to classic roofing (eternit), which is rooted in local tradition dating back to the time of the monarchy. The project gently seeks to integrate into the cultivated cultural landscape of Wachau. Only upon closer inspection does it reveal that it embodies sculptural qualities reflecting in abstract form the high art of winemaking.