Viticulture combines traditional craftsmanship with modern technology. Particularly in the sensitive area of grape processing, choosing the right press technology is crucial for the quality of the final wine. Wine presses made in Germany have been the benchmark for precision, reliability and innovation for decades. As one of the leading manufacturers of pneumatic wine presses, Willmes has played a decisive role in this development for over 70 years.
In this portrait, you will find out what makes Willmes a company and why German engineering plays a key role in modern winemaking.
The designation Made in Germany stands for a consistent quality philosophy in mechanical engineering. At Willmes, this means: production at the Lorsch site, strict quality controls in all production steps and a high standard of durability.
From the design to the assembly of the double diaphragm technology, presses are created that are both technically and functionally impressive. The control technology, developed for demanding cellar operations, allows precise control of the entire pressing process. High-quality materials such as stainless steel and durable seals ensure that Willmes presses continue to work reliably for decades.
This quality strategy results in durable systems that represent a safe investment for winegrowers. The SPHERA product line, as well as the tried and tested SIGMA and MERLIN series, impressively demonstrate how quality and function go hand in hand.
Willmes is the pioneer of pneumatic wine presses. Back in the 1950s, the company developed the first presses that used air pressure instead of mechanical components such as spindles or pressing plates. This innovation fundamentally changed the way grapes were processed.
The pneumatic pressure build-up enables particularly gentle processing of the grapes. Sensitive aromas are retained, bitter substances from crusts, skins and seeds are reduced. The flexible adjustment of the pressing pressure to the grape variety and vinification target enables precise control of the must quality.
State-of-the-art technologies such as the double membrane and the flexible, vertical juice channels ensure that juice is efficiently drained off during the filling process. This minimizes oxidation and lees and improves the aroma stability of the must.
Longevity is no coincidence, but the result of technical planning. Willmes presses are designed so that they can remain in use for decades. Numerous wineries report machines that continue to function reliably even after 20 or 30 years. This is not only due to the high-quality workmanship, but also to the fact that many models can be retrofitted with the latest control systems or extensions.
This means that the investment retains its value over a long period of time and remains technologically up to date. Willmes presses are also in demand on the used machine market due to their robustness and ease of maintenance.
A key factor in Willmes' success is its close connection to practice and science. In cooperation with institutions and international oenologists, we develop pressing programs and technical developments that are specifically geared towards the needs of modern wineries.
Particular attention is paid to the differentiation of the pressing phases and their sensory effect. The ability to customize pressing processes allows winemakers to actively influence the aroma, structure and style of the wine. Pressing technology thus becomes an active part of the winery's quality strategy.
Today, Willmes presses can be found in wineries all over the world. Winemakers in Europe in particular, but also in Australia, South Africa, the USA and South America, rely on press technology from Lorsch. Despite this international focus, the company remains rooted in the region.
All development steps, production and quality assurance take place in Germany. Service and spare parts supply are also managed centrally. This guarantees high quality standards and short response times when servicing is required. For Winzer, this means safety for many years to come.
Willmes stands for what distinguishes Made in Germany in viticulture: technological precision, high production quality and an uncompromising focus on practical application. The combination of mechanical engineering and oenology makes the Willmes presses a tool that not only works efficiently, but also makes a targeted contribution to the quality of the wine.
Anyone looking for a pneumatic wine press that offers more than the standard technology of the 1970s will find a partner in Willmes that combines viticulture and mechanical engineering in a special way. For winegrowers, choosing a Willmes press is a long-term investment in quality, efficiency and operational reliability.
%201.svg){kind=logo}
