A historical field name with meaning
The Kaiserspan vineyard, located in the canton of Lucerne, on the Sonnenhügel in Gelfingen near Hitzkirch, bears a historical field name: Kaiserspan – the field name comes from Kaiser’s and comes from Kaiser’s Bann, once the hunting grounds of nearby Heidegg Castle. The Kaiserspan belonged to the neighboring Heidegg Castle in the 19th century; at that time, the area served as an exclusive hunting ground for the residents and was reserved for guests of Heidegg. The clear-cutting of the forest on August 28, 1851 laid the foundation stone for the Kaiserspan and marked the beginning of the development of the Kaiserspan estate; this allowed the construction of the infrastructure and agricultural use of the Kaiserspan estate to begin. Originally, five hectares of forest were cleared, while further hectares of forest were left standing, and ten hectares were used for viticulture, so that forest and agriculture characterized the area. The construction included the erection of the residential building and the vineyard cottage, built specifically for the needs of the time. Between 1851 and 1957, the Kaiserspan was the only vineyard in the canton of Lucerne and, as a property, shaped the development of the region; as Kaiserspan Gelfingen, it is still an important part of local viticultural history today. The connection to Kaiser’s and the historical development of the vineyard underline the special significance of this location.
Revival and modern viticulture Kaiserspan
After the break, viticulture was revived in 1990 by Peter and Edith Mächler-Britschgi, who replanted the Sonnenhügel – after several phases of replanting, the estate now has a significantly larger vineyard area.
The development took place in stages; today it covers an area of around 4.5 hectares.
Location, philosophy and orientation
The vineyard is located in an area with breathtaking views of mountains and lakes, including views of Lake Baldeggersee, Lake Hallwilersee, Pilatus and Titlis – and is idyllically situated in Lucerne’s Seetal valley, which is known for its natural beauty and tranquillity. The Rebhüsli, built in 1920, is the only one of its kind in the canton of Lucerne. The wine is produced according to IP-Suisse and ÖLN guidelines – with respect for biodiversity and minimal additives.
Grape varieties and wine range
The wines range from the classic Riesling-Silvaner to Pinot Gris, Muscat Oliver, Souvignier Gris and red wines such as Pinot Noir and Zweigelt. The range includes white wines, rosés, red wines, cuvées, sparkling wines, dessert wines and fine brandies, including Marc, Kirsch and Prune.
Wine and enjoyment: the Kaiserspan experience
A visit to the Kaiserspan winery is much more than a classic wine tasting – it is an experience for all the senses. Nestled in the picturesque landscape of the canton of Lucerne, with the historic field name Kaiserspan and in the immediate vicinity of Heidegg Castle, guests can expect a place where winemaking tradition and modern gourmet culture meet.
You can feel the passion for viticulture in every detail: from the lovingly tended vineyard, which extends over 4.5 hectares, to the warm hospitality of the Mächler-Britschgi family. Grape varieties such as Riesling Silvaner, Pinot Gris, Souvignier Gris, Muscat Oliver, Pinot Noir, Zweigelt and Cal 1-28 are cultivated here with in-depth specialist knowledge and a great deal of love for nature. The wines of Kaiserspan are characterized by their varietal freshness, fine aromas and unmistakable effervescence – a true trademark of the winery.
Guests can enjoy the variety of Kaiserspan wines in a relaxed atmosphere in the winery’s own restaurant. The menu is carefully matched to the wines and offers regional specialties to round off the taste experience. Whether a glass of Riesling Silvaner with a view of the mountains or an elegant Pinot Gris to accompany a fine meal – here, wine enjoyment becomes an unforgettable experience. The price range of wines and fine brandies extends from CHF 18.00 to CHF 29.00 and offers something to suit every taste and occasion.
Visitors to the Kaiserspan winery are immersed in the history of the vineyard’s name, experience nature up close and feel the enthusiasm with which the family business is run. The cultivation of the vineyard has been developed over generations with great dedication and, after several stages of replanting, has become what it is today: a place where tradition, innovation and wine enjoyment are in harmony.
Whether as an excursion destination, for a tasting or a festive meal – the Kaiserspan is an insider tip for anyone who wants to experience viticulture, nature and hospitality in the heart of the Lucerne Lake Valley.
Successes and awards
An outstanding example of Kaiserspan viticulture: the Kaiserspan Riesling-Silvaner 2022 was named Central Switzerland’s single-varietal white wine “Wine of the Year”. The AOC Lucerne designation also reflects the recognized quality.
Conclusion: flagships and the wine enjoyment experience
The Kaiserspan winery – a traditional Kaiserspan winery – combines history, location (Canton Lucerne with breathtaking views of mountains and lakes), quality craftsmanship and modern commitment to viticulture. The Riesling Silvaner as a flagship wine and the location next to Heidegg Castle make wine enjoyment an experience. The combination of family business, historic location, diverse range of wines and recognized awards consolidates the reputation of Kaiserspan in the region and beyond.
Frequently asked questions about the Kaiserspan winery
How did Kaiserspan viticulture develop historically?
Viticulture began in 1851 with the clear-cutting of the forest, established itself until 1957 as the only vineyard in the canton of Lucerne and was revived in 1990 by Peter and Edith Mächler-Britschgi in several stages of replanting.
Which grape varieties does Weingut Kaiserspan grow?
The winery cultivates Riesling Silvaner, Pinot Gris, Muscat Oliver, Souvignier Gris, Pinot Noir and Zweigelt – complemented by cuvées, sparkling wines and fine brandies such as Marc and Kirsch.
What makes the Kaiserspan’s location special?
The vineyard offers breathtaking views of the mountains and lakes and is located near Heidegg Castle in the canton of Lucerne. The Rebhüsli dating from 1920 is particularly special – the only one of its kind in the canton.
What awards has the winery received?
The Kaiserspan Riesling-Silvaner 2022 was named the best single-varietal white wine in Central Switzerland. The wine range also bears the AOC Lucerne label for quality wines.
Who runs the Kaiserspan winery today?
The family business is run jointly by Peter and Edith Mächler-Britschgi and today cultivates around 4.5 hectares of vineyards according to organic guidelines.
Does the Kaiserspan winery also grow Riesling Silvaner?
Yes, this grape variety is one of the estate’s most successful wines.