Wine Museum of Caldaro: A journey through vines, wine, and culture
In the heart of the oldest wine-growing region in the German-speaking world, just a few steps from the picturesque Lake Caldaro, lies the South Tyrolean Wine Museum. Housed in the former Di Pauli winery, the museum tells the long story of South Tyrol’s winemaking tradition, offering an immersive experience that blends history, production techniques, and ancient wine-related crafts.
This unique place, where past meets present, allows visitors to explore a remarkable collection of agricultural tools, old containers, decorated glassware, and religious artifacts — all bearing witness to the evolution of the winemaking world.
A museum with a story to tell
The idea of preserving the memory of South Tyrolean winemaking was born in 1955, thanks to the initiative of a group of enthusiasts, including the master cellarer Luis Oberrauch and Walter Amonn. With the rapid spread of modern technologies, there was a growing risk of losing the tools and traditions of the past. Thus, the Wine Museum was founded — the first museum established in South Tyrol after World War II.
After several relocations, in 1988 the museum found its permanent home in the historic center of Caldaro, in a building that once served as the administration of the Caldaro-Laimburg estate and as a courthouse, as well as a winery. Since then, it has continued to tell the story of wine culture through its extensive collection and thematic exhibitions.
A journey through history and tradition: From vine to wine
The permanent exhibition takes visitors on a journey through the centuries, from vine cultivation to wine production and storage. Here, you can admire ancient tools and utensils that illustrate the working conditions of vintners before the advent of modern technology.
A special area is dedicated to the cooper’s craft, a key figure in traditional viticulture, featuring a fully furnished workshop that showcases the tools and techniques used to build barrels.
The exhibition also includes a fascinating section on wine and religion, displaying sacred imagery that highlights the symbolic and spiritual significance of wine throughout history.
The underground cellar: A sensory experience of history and taste
In the past, being invited into a winemaker’s underground cellar was a great honor. Even today, this space retains a warm and evocative atmosphere.
Every week, the museum offers guided tours with wine tastings, concluding the visit with a glass of Kalterersee, the region’s characteristic red wine. For groups of at least five people, it is also possible to book special tastings dedicated to South Tyrol’s native grape varieties.
The museum vineyard: Discovering rare varieties
Outside, the museum boasts an extensive vineyard featuring rare and ancient grape varieties that are now seldom cultivated, such as Bozner Seidentraube, white strawberry grape, Blatterle, and Gschlafene.
During autumn, visitors can pick and taste grapes directly from the vines, immersing themselves in an authentic experience that bridges past and present. From here, there is also a beautiful view of Mitterberg, Castelchiaro, and Lake Caldaro.
A journey into the culture of wine
In addition to the permanent collection, the museum hosts various temporary exhibitions and events, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience. It also serves as a scientific research center for viticulture, with a continuously expanding collection.
Visiting the Wine Museum of Caldaro means discovering the history, traditions, and evolution of South Tyrol’s winemaking culture. Between ancient tools, historic vineyards, and cellar tastings, this museum offers an engaging and authentic experience for all wine lovers and culture enthusiasts.
For more information, visit the official website of the South Tyrol Wine Museum.