When a building is realised that deviates from what is otherwise customary in a village, it may initially be irritating. The Cantina Tramin in South Tyrol was no different, but the expressive building by architect Werner Tscholl is now even celebrated as a landmark of Tramin.
Here in the more southerly part of South Tyrol, the so-called Überetsch style actually prevails, an architectural style inspired by Tuscany with inner courtyards, double-arched windows, loggias and open staircases. The Cantina Tramin, on the other hand, is more reminiscent of a modern sculpture. The fact that the building nevertheless nestles into the landscape is thanks to the talent of Werner Tscholl, who was named Italian Architect of the Year 2016 for good reason, including “due to his deep roots in the geographical and social environment in which he works“.
No vine had to give way for the revitalisation of the Cantina Tramin. On the contrary. It is as if the building itself is now watching over the surrounding vines as a mother vine. The original building was extended by two glass cubes, which are encased in a net-like green steel structure, as if the shoots of the vines were entwining it. It thus symbolises the link between the past and the future as well as the winery’s wine, some of which has won awards.
While the wine production can take place in peace in the lower area, visitors are welcomed in the upper area. The entrance is the traditional winery building, from which the annexes spread out like two arms, offering a museum, wine shop and tasting room. This is also where you can enjoy the most spectacular views of the winery’s vineyards.
About Cantina Tramin:
In 1898, the priest of Tramin founded a co-operative to secure the future of the small local winegrowers. This makes the Tramin winery one of the oldest co-operatives in the region. 160 winegrowing families currently work together here on their South Tyrolean wines, above all Gewürztraminer.
Photocredit: Cantina Tramin