The WineCultureAmbassador 2023

Klaus Platter

Klaus Platter is the new Wine Culture Ambassador

The WineCulture Marling has a new ambassador: Klaus Platter. Following in the footsteps of distinguished figures like Hans Terzer, Alois Lageder, the "Freien Weinbauern", Josef Reiterer, and Elena Walch, Platter is now one of the leading names in the world of wine. This prestigious award, presented annually by the WineCultureMarling, honors individuals who enrich regional wine culture, introduce innovative ideas, and promote wine culture beyond regional borders.

Ceremony at the Barbara Cellar in the Romantikhotel Oberwirt
In the charming setting of the Barbara Cellar at the Romantikhotel Oberwirt, Klaus Platter was honored by the coordinator of the WineCulture Marling, Walter Mairhofer. The tribute speech was given by wine expert Sebastian Marseiler, who described Platter as a "vinosopher and troubadour," emphasizing his deep influence on South Tyrolean wine culture and his commitment to sustainable practices and innovation in winemaking.

Greetings and Special Anniversaries
Johannes Mairhofer, vice president of the Marling Tourist Association, also praised Platter’s achievements and highlighted two important milestones: 15 years of WineCulture Marling and 5 years of the WineCulture Ambassador. Another key moment was the 50th anniversary of Josef Waldner, who was recognized for his decades of dedication at the Romantikhotel Oberwirt.

Mayor Felix Lanpacher emphasized the importance of wine culture for Marling and the role of the Tourist Association in promoting local marketing, while Provincial Councillor Arnold Schuler reiterated the significance of viticulture for South Tyrol.

Thanks and Honors
Special thanks were expressed by former Governor Luis Durnwalder, who has worked alongside Klaus Platter for decades to develop South Tyrolean wine culture. The outgoing WineCulture Ambassador, Elena Walch, was traditionally honored with a caricature by Peppi Tischler.

Insights into the “Steil” Sparkling Wine and Merano’s Sweet Wine
In addition to the honors, there were intriguing insights into the world of wine: Geier Bernhard, whose innovative tracked vehicles are used in steep vineyards, presented his sparkling wine “Steil.” The cellar master of the Merano Winery, Stefan Kapfinger, described the unique characteristics of the winery’s sweet wine.
Ambassador Karl Platter