Story: Muri Gries | South Tyrol
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The history of Muri-Gries: from monastery to winery
Muri-Gries dates back to the 11th century, when Benedictine monks from the Swiss monastery of Muri moved into the former Augustinian monastery of Gries near Bolzano in 1845. There they revived the monastic winegrowing tradition and began trading open wines in the northern German-speaking region in the early 20th century. In 1968, the estate's own wines were bottled for the first time, and in 1985 the focus shifted to the indigenous Lagrein - a step that earned Muri-Gries its reputation as the “Lagrein monastery”. Since then, centuries-old monastic craftsmanship has merged with modern oenology here.

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Terroir and vineyards
Muri-Gries currently owns around 60 hectares of vineyards on the sun-drenched slopes around Bolzano and Appiano. The heart of the vineyard is the historic Klosteranger with around 2.7 hectares of Lagrein vines, supplemented by other plots in prime locations. The terroir is characterized by limestone and slate soils, which store heat during the day and release it at night, as well as by cool mountain and alpine breezes. This combination of soil, slope and microclimate allows for even ripening and gives the wines a fine minerality and characteristic freshness.

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Grape varieties and styles
Lagrein in all its facets. Lagrein is the flagship of Muri-Gries. In addition to the classic Lagrein Rosso and the Rosé, the Riserva versions “Abtei” and more recently “Klosteranger” have made the leap to the top. They have a deep, dark ruby red color, soft tannins and aromas of dark berries, damp forest soil and subtle hints of spice. As they mature, they develop a silky structure and persistent fruity notes.

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White and specialty wines
White wines and specialty wines account for around 15% of production. Pinot Bianco is characterized by delicate pear and almond notes, while Chardonnay offers a harmonious balance of freshness and vanilla nuances in barrique ageing. The St. Magdalener (Vernatsch cuvée) and the Rosenmuskateller, a sweet specialty that is only produced in selected years, are also traditionally cultivated.

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Modern cellar technology meets monastic values
Muri-Gries combines traditional craftsmanship with modern cellar technology: the grapes are selectively harvested by hand, gently processed and fermented at a controlled temperature. Where necessary, barrique and large wooden barrels provide additional finesse. However, the motto “ora et labora” - pray and work - always takes center stage. This spiritual heritage can be felt in every sip: it is the constant care of the vines and the dedication to every step of the work that breathes the soul into the wines.

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Outlook and commitment
Even today, the cooperative remains closely interwoven with the region. Initiatives to biologize the vineyards as well as projects to preserve old vines and biodiverse compensation areas reflect the sustainable self-image. With annual awards and an international presence in top restaurants, Muri-Gries carries the tradition of South Tyrolean monastery viticulture out into the world - and continues to write its almost thousand-year-old success story. - Gerardo [TS05/25]

"History, tradition, research - this incipit aptly describes the ancient Muri-Gries monastery winery. In 1407, Archduke Leopold donated Gries Castle to homeless monks, who turned it into a monastery. The old chapel was converted into a cellar - today the Lagrein matures there. Christian Werth was one of the first to plant this variety. He restructured the old vineyards and selected the highest quality clones." - Gambero Rosso