Kornell Winery

Kornell Winery is owned and managed by Florian Brigl, who took over the historic estate in 1996. Brigl, a member of a long-established South Tyrolean winegrowing family, has led Kornell with a modern yet respectful approach to tradition. He is supported by a close-knit team that shares his emphasis on quality, sustainability, and authenticity. Under his stewardship, Kornell has become a benchmark for characterful wines from Alto Adige.

The Kornell estate dates back to at least the 13th century, with its roots tied to the Kornell Castle, a former bishop’s residence. The surrounding vineyards were historically used for winegrowing, and in the 1920s, the Brigl family began producing wine under their own name. Florian Brigl revived the estate’s winemaking potential in the late 1990s, transforming it into a modern winery while preserving the estate’s historic charm.

Kornell is based in the village of Siebeneich, a hamlet of Terlan (Terlano), situated between Bolzano and Merano in Alto Adige’s southern foothills. The estate lies within the Südtirol DOC and benefits from a warm yet ventilated climate. Its vineyards span from 270 to 550 meters above sea level on sun-exposed slopes with porphyry and sandy soils, ideal for both white and red varieties.

Kornell farms approximately 15 hectares of its own vineyards, supplemented by long-term partners from selected sites. The key vineyard areas include those around Siebeneich and the higher elevations near Gries and St. Magdalena. Sustainable viticulture is central to Kornell’s philosophy, with careful canopy management, low yields, and hand harvesting. The porphyry-rich soils and temperature swings contribute to the aromatic precision and structure of their wines, especially Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, and Lagrein.

Florian Brigl emphasizes a balanced approach to winemaking, aiming to highlight varietal character and site expression. Fermentation typically occurs in stainless steel or oak, depending on the variety, with a thoughtful use of lees and aging to build complexity. Red wines are aged in oak barrels and tonneaux to achieve structure and depth, while whites are often fresh and mineral-driven, reflecting Alpine clarity.

Kornell is best known for its expressive Sauvignon Blanc, including the flagship “Oberberg,” which showcases precision and minerality. Reds such as “Aichholz” Merlot-Cabernet and “Staffes” Lagrein blend finesse with power. The estate also produces a notable Pinot Grigio and a small amount of sparkling wine. Across the range, the wines are marked by freshness, structure, and a clear sense of place.

Kornell offers an intimate and scenic visiting experience, with tastings held in the estate’s renovated historic cellars and gardens. Guests can explore the vineyards and enjoy panoramic views of the Adige Valley. The estate regularly hosts guided tastings and events by appointment, providing insights into the winemaking process and the unique terroir of Alto Adige.