INTERVIEW WITH ARMIN TEMENT

LET'S START WITH A MEAN QUESTION: IS IT POSSIBLE TO MAKE A DELICIOUS, ORGANIC WINE?

That's really mean (laughs). An organic wine can be delicious and a conventional one horrible – and vice versa. A grape from sustainable cultivation alone does not make a good wine. Factors like ripeness and the artisanal aspects of production are equally important. Another thing that plays a role is people's taste which is constantly changing, and often much more than we perceive.

YOU’RE SAYING OUR SENSE OF TASTE IS CHANGING, NOT THE WINE?

A little, perhaps (smiles). Of course, there have been many developments in sustainable winemaking in the last few years and we are constantly working to perfect our craft. But yes, the perception  of what tastes good changes. Take plant milk for example. Not long ago, many people turned up their noses, yet today, consumers are almost startled when you offer them cow's milk.

WHY SUSTAINABLE FARMING?

Honestly, we didn't decide this. We’re a third-generation family business who’ve always worked this way. Sustainable farming is the original form of agriculture known to humankind. But what we did consciously decide to do is improve our approach and get a Demeter certification. The guidelines for biodynamic farming are very strict here but it matches our style 100%.

BIODYNAMIC – WHAT DOES THIS MEAN EXACTLY?

In contrast to organic farming, which does not use pesticides, the biodynamic farming method goes further by following a holistic cycle that addresses multiple topics like resource, climate and environmental impact. It also includes less obvious things like employee wellbeing. If we only focused on the climate, how could we provide employees the protection they need too?

WHY TAKE SUCH A BIG RISK?

Each individual, and especially every company, takes on an incredible amount of responsibility today. Much more than before. In the end, it’s a question of attitude: What can I and do I want to achieve? We are so convinced of a sustainable approach that any other way is not an option.


... A FEW MORE QUESTIONS

WHICH OF YOUR WINES DO YOU ENJOY THE MOST?

Actually, the Kalk und Kreide Sauvignon Blanc. This wine best reflects our family's signature style.

DO YOU DO UNREASONABLE THINGS IN YOUR COMPANY?

Absolutely (laughs). We experiment a lot. For example, we're releasing a red wine soon that bucks the general trend. A Cabernet Franc, to be precise.

ABOUT ARMIN TEMENT

The Styrian Tement Winery is one of the most awarded and most strictly certified in Austria since 1959. Today, Armin Tement is the third generation to run the family business together with his cousin Manfred, his brother Stefan and 50 employees. Healthy food and excellent taste are not just a job, but a way of life for Armin.

“The Lucian and Tement families have been closely connected for 70 years. The Burg has always had the highest standards for the best food and wine, and that’s why we are such a good fit.”