The word "Kolfok" comes from a regional Burgenland dialect and refers to lateral thinkers, people who are critical or consciously decide against convention, or simply someone who steps out of line. This term fits perfectly with Stefan David Wellanschitz's winery, which has long since made a name for itself with its wines beyond the borders of Austria.
The roots of the winery go back to the early 19th century, when Burgenland was still part of Hungary. Burgenland is very different from the other wine regions in the country. Some parts of the vineyards lie directly on the border with Hungary, and the market town of Neckenmarkt in particular has a unique combination of Alpine soils and Pannonian climate. Neckenmarkt is located in the middle of the Ödenburg Valley, with vineyards at up to 500 metres above sea level, although the soils vary greatly. In the higher locations, they are characterised by slate, gneiss and limestone, whereas in the lower locations, ferruginous loam and volcanic clay predominate.
Stefan David Wellanschitz wants these exceptional conditions to be reflected in his wines. That's why he can be found both in the vineyards and in the cellar. To avoid monocultures, the vines grow organically in synergy with other herbs and plants. In the cellar, his recipe is very simple: the grape juice leaves the press and flows without pumping into local oak barrels of 600 liters (half-piece) and 1,200 litres (piece). Here it remains without fining, decanting or even sulphurization. At the optimum time, the wines are bottled unfiltered and with a minimal addition of sulphur. It can be that simple - and taste so good at the same time.
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