ON A DISCOVERY JOURNEY: DISTILLATES & WINES

Discover South Tyrol’s First Female Distiller on a Tasting Journey

This engaging tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of handcrafted spirits and fine wines in the stunning landscape of Trentino-South Tyrol. For just $20 a person, you get to spend about an hour and a half exploring historic cellars, tasting exclusive limited editions, and uncovering the artistry behind natural fruit distilling.

What we especially love about this experience is the personal touch—guided by Christine Schönweger, South Tyrol’s first court distiller, you’re not just sampling spirits; you’re stepping into her world of passion, craftsmanship, and authentic production.

A potential consideration is that the tour is relatively short, so if you’re a serious connoisseur or want an in-depth exploration, you might wish to supplement it with additional tastings or visits. However, for those wanting a genuine, intimate experience that balances education with sensory delight, this tour hits the mark.

This experience fits best for travelers curious about local traditions, lovers of spirits and wines, or anyone seeking a taste of authentic South Tyrol. It’s also ideal for those interested in small-group, private experiences that offer insights beyond the usual tourist spots.

Key Points

• Authentic Heritage: Tasting occurs in a historic vaulted cellar dating from the 14th century, adding a sense of timelessness.
• Diverse Samples: You’ll taste 5 exquisite wines and 12 carefully crafted brandies, most in limited editions.
• Personal Connection: Guided by Christine Schönweger, the region’s first female court distiller, offering a personal and passionate perspective.
• Apple Experience: Includes a special guided tour by apple ambassador Christine, emphasizing the region’s apple heritage.
• Educational & Delicious: Learn about honest distilling and natural fruit spirits while enjoying a sensory journey.
• Convenient Location: Easily accessible from Merano and Vinschgau with clear directions.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Setting the Scene: Historic Cellar & Guided Tour

The tour begins at the Gaudententurm in Partschins, a building that dates back to the 14th century. Walking into this ancient vaulted cellar immediately sets a mood of authenticity and craftsmanship. The stone arches and old-world charm create an ambiance that amplifies the sensory experience of tasting spirits crafted with care and tradition.

Christine Schönweger, who has cultivated her family’s orchards and vineyards for 27 years, infuses her spirits with her personal story and dedication. Her background is as unconventional as her product range—after studying fashion design in Milan, she discovered her true calling in distilling. This blend of creativity and tradition makes her an engaging guide, and her passion clearly comes through in her explanations.

What You’ll Learn and Taste

Throughout the 1.5-hour tour, Christine shares insights into honest distilling—the natural, authentic process that emphasizes fruit quality and craftsmanship. Her collection of limited edition spirits includes 16 distillates and 5 wines, giving you a rare opportunity to taste exclusive creations that aren’t available elsewhere.

The tasting features five wines and twelve brandies, allowing you to appreciate the nuanced differences between each. Since the spirits are crafted depending on the vintage, the weather, and the season, each bottle represents a snapshot of the year’s harvest, making each tasting unique.

An especially memorable part is the Apple Experience—a guided tour led by Christine’s fellow apple ambassador—highlighting the region’s deep connection to apple cultivation. Expect to see the orchards and learn how apples are integral to South Tyrol’s local identity.

Why the Setting Matters

Having the tasting in a historic cellar isn’t just about atmosphere; it also plays a role in preserving the spirits and showcasing traditional methods. The old stone walls, with their natural insulation, help maintain the quality of the spirits, providing a genuine connection to the past.

The presentation of each spirit includes interesting facts about distilling techniques, the story behind each creation, and insights into Christine’s career. This personal storytelling helps deepen the appreciation for the craftsmanship involved, elevating the tasting beyond just sipping.

The Practical Aspects & Logistics

The tour is designed as a private group experience, ensuring personal interaction and tailored insights. Meeting points are straightforward: from Merano, catch a bus to Partschins, and from Vinschgau, a train to Töll followed by a bus. The distillery is just a short walk from the bus station, making logistics simple.

Cost-wise, the $20 fee offers excellent value, considering the quality and exclusivity of the spirits you sample. The tour includes the guided experience and tastings, with the option to cancel free of charge up to 24 hours prior—ideal for flexible planning.

The Experience from Reviews

Although specific reviews aren’t provided here, the focus on Christine’s personal story and the historic setting indicate a genuine, intimate experience that’s likely to resonate with visitors. The fact that the spirits are crafted with care and feature many limited editions suggests a memorable tasting session.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a lover of spirits, wines, or simply enjoy learning about local traditions, this tour is a wonderful choice. It’s perfect for travelers seeking authentic, small-group experiences that combine history, craftsmanship, and sensory pleasure.

For those interested in apple cultivation or regional specialties, the Apple Experience adds another layer of interest. It also caters well to fans of artisanal, honest production who want to see the process behind the labels.

However, if you’re looking for a long, in-depth exploration of distilling or want a large-scale commercial tasting, this might feel a bit limited in scope. Still, for the price and intimacy, it offers significant value.

The Sum Up

This tour provides a rare, close-up look at South Tyrol’s tradition of distilling and winemaking through the lens of Christine Schönweger’s craftsmanship. The historic setting, combined with personalized insights and exclusive tastings, makes it a genuine highlight for those curious about regional spirits and wines.

It’s a smart choice for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences—those who want to taste the fruits of local labor and gain a deeper understanding of honest distilling. The limited edition spirits and wines, crafted with passion and care, give this tour a sense of uniqueness that’s hard to find elsewhere.

While it’s a relatively short experience, the storytelling and intimate atmosphere ensure it’s memorable. Whether you’re a connoisseur or simply curious, this journey into South Tyrol’s spirits promises both education and enjoyment for a modest price.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable, engaging experience without being overly long.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a guided tour through the historic cellar, along with tastings of 5 wines and 12 brandies.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort for a variety of mobility needs.

How do I get there from Merano?
Take the bus to Partschins and follow Gaudententurmstraße for about 100 meters—the distillery is on your left.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is this experience suitable for private groups?
Absolutely, the experience is designed for private groups, offering a personalized and exclusive setting.

This tour offers a real taste of South Tyrol’s distilling tradition, wrapped in history, authenticity, and personal passion—definitely worth considering on your visit.