Viticulture Elias Bachmann and his roots
Weinbau Elias Bachmann is a modern, sustainable winery in the picturesque Seetal valley, more precisely in Gelfingen near Hitzkirch in the canton of Lucerne, not far from Heidegg. The vineyards cover around 1.6 hectares, on which grape varieties are cultivated that are typical of viticulture in the Seetal, but also meet modern requirements. This family business is characterized in particular by its clearly defined philosophy and the harmonious interplay of tradition and innovation.
The history of the winery begins with the passion of its owner Elias Bachmann, who is also the cellar master – a career changer with a love of nature and agriculture. He emphasizes personal commitment and responsibility, especially in dealing with nature and in the cultivation of his grape varieties. The surroundings – situated on the Seetal, in the transition from Lake Baldegg to the gentle moraine landscape and in the immediate vicinity of the lake – offer ideal conditions for this. The special climate by the lake contributes significantly to the sustainable cultivation of the vineyards and the high quality of the wines and creates a unique atmosphere for viticulture.
Grape varieties, grape varieties and sustainable viticulture
The fungus-resistant varieties Solaris, Johanniter, Muscaris and Divico play a central role in the range of vines. These crosses are particularly resistant and enable viticulture with reduced use of pesticides, which reflects the philosophy of Elias Bachmann viticulture as well as responsibility for the environment and the soil.
The Solaris grape produces white wines full of character with a golden color and green reflections. Johanniter produces crisp, fresh white wines, while Muscaris unfolds fruity, nutmeg-like nuances in the glass. The red wine grape variety Divico – a cross between Gamaret and Bronner – is a real specialty. It produces red wines with an intense color, violet reflections and pronounced aromas of blackberries and dark cherries, which continue harmoniously on the nose, palate and finish.
Terroir, location and viticulture
The vineyard is not located on steep slopes, but on flat terrain with moraine soils that were once shaped by the side arm of the Reuss glacier. In contrast to classic steep slopes, which allow the vines to be exposed to particularly intense sunlight due to their sloping position, our areas benefit from a targeted orientation of the rows: The vines are planted in such a way that the sun shines on them from morning to evening. The sun plays a decisive role in optimal grape ripening and the high quality of the grapes. This terroir contributes significantly to the quality of the grapes and has a positive influence on the color, structure and finish of the wines.
The company is committed to the highest quality standards, which are reflected not least in the achievement of the AOC Lucerne label and thus contribute to its positioning on the regional wine market.
Wine assortment and store offer
Wines from the 2023 vintage and distillates from the 2020 vintage are available in the winery’s store. The range of wines includes Solaris 2023, Johanniter 2023, Muscaris 2023, Divico 2023 and a Divico Barrique variant 2023. This variety demonstrates the winery’s clear focus on diversity and quality – from off-dry to full-bodied, from white to red. The wines available by the bottle or in larger quantities are complemented by the opportunity to taste and buy on site.
Occasions and events related to winegrowing Elias Bachmann
Weinbau Elias Bachmann in Gelfingen regularly invites wine lovers and interested parties to special occasions and events that bring the winery and its wines to life. In the middle of the picturesque vineyards on Süesswinkelstrasse in the Seetal valley, guests can discover the diversity of grape varieties and the philosophy of sustainable viticulture at first hand.
Whether at guided wine tastings, exclusive tasting evenings or themed events around the current vintage – visitors have the opportunity to taste the characterful wines such as the ELIAS Divico or the Solaris directly at the place of origin. The golden yellow color of Solaris with its green reflections, the strong finish of Divico and the fresh aromas of Johanniter unfold particularly impressively in the authentic ambience of the winery.
The events not only offer insights into the work of cellar master Elias Bachmann, but also into the special features of the vineyard, which thrives on the mineral-rich moraine soils of a former branch of the Reuss glacier. The flat plain and the optimal sunshine of the Seetal region create ideal conditions for the vines and characterize the quality of the wines, which regularly attract attention in the category of the best Swiss wines.
A central concern of Elias Bachmann’s viticulture is the responsible treatment of nature. The use of fungus-resistant grape varieties such as Divico, Solaris and Johanniter enables a reduced use of pesticides and stands for modern, sustainable viticulture. At the events, guests learn first-hand how this philosophy is put into practice at every step – from the care of the vines to vinification in the cellar.
If you would like to find out more about the wines, the grape varieties and the history of the winery, you can visit the store on site or online and purchase the wines directly. Cellar master Elias Bachmann is personally available for questions, guided tours or individual events. The events are an invitation to experience the passion for wine, the beauty of the region and the quality of the wines from Weinbau Elias Bachmann in Gelfingen.
Successes, vintages and reputation
ELIAS Divico has been named several times in regional wine awards – for example as a nominee in the “Best Central Swiss Wines” competition as a single-varietal red wine. This recognition underlines the quality and character that characterize Elias Bachmann’s wines.
The combination of innovation (e.g. fungus-resistant grape varieties), quality and clear regional roots in the Seetal creates a brand that appeals to both wine connoisseurs and interested gourmets. The use of modern cultivation methods combined with respect for nature and tradition makes the winery a convincing example of contemporary viticulture.
Frequently asked questions about winegrowing Elias Bachmann
What makes Weinbau Elias Bachmann special?
Weinbau Elias Bachmann combines sustainable cultivation methods with fungus-resistant grape varieties such as Solaris, Johanniter, Muscaris and Divico. The location in the Seetal valley on flat moraine soils and the clear focus on quality and sustainability clearly characterize the business.
Which grape varieties are grown?
The repertoire includes Solaris, Johanniter, Muscaris and Divico. These grape varieties are characterized by their resistance properties, diverse aroma profiles and their suitability for modern, environmentally friendly wine production.
Has ELIAS Divico received any awards or special recognition?
ELIAS Divico has been nominated in regional competitions such as “Best Central Swiss Wines” and stands for high-quality red wines in a classic, single-varietal style.
Where is the winery located and how do I get there?
The winery is located in Gelfingen, on Süesswinkelstrasse in the Seetal on Lake Baldegg in the canton of Lucerne. A visit with wine tasting is possible by prior arrangement.