In March, we welcomed a special visitor to Willmes: over 50 members of the Italian oenologists' association Assoenologie traveled to our plant in Lorsch as part of their specialist study trip through Germany. The focus of the visit: an intensive exchange on the future of wine pressing, modern technologies and the application of scientific findings in practice.
The guests from Italy were first given an exclusive insight into the production facilities of our pneumatic wine presses - including the tried-and-tested SIGMA and MERLIN models as well as our latest innovation: the SPHERA, a milestone in the further development of pneumatic press technology.
During the tour, not only were technical production processes shown, but the functional principles of our patented technologies were also explained - including the unique Willmes pressing principle, which stands for particularly gentle must extraction combined with high efficiency.
Following the tour, Michele Gnecchi and Ulrich Willmes presented the special features of the pressing process in our company's own showroom. One of the highlights was undoubtedly the impressive video from inside the press tank, showing the processing of whole Chardonnay grapes with the interplay of the flexible, vertical juice channels and the proven Willmes double membrane technology.
This combination not only allows a particularly even distribution of pressure, but also ensures maximum gentle extraction of the grape juice - an essential advantage, especially for sensitive grape varieties and high-quality wines.
Another highlight of the visit was the virtual lecture by Professor Dr. Ulrich Fischer from DLR Neustadt, one of the most renowned viticultural research institutes in Europe. In an intensive session, Prof. Fischer shared current results from his research projects on the sensory effects of various pressing methods.
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This scientifically sound input was received and discussed with great interest by the Assoenology guests - not least because it has direct relevance for everyday cellar practice.
The visit was rounded off with a convivial part: over a regional buffet with specialties from the surrounding area and selected wines typical of the region, the participants were able to network in a relaxed atmosphere, exchange experiences and reflect on what they had seen and heard. Afterwards, the Italian trade visitors moved on to Rheinhessen, another center of German winegrowing culture.
The Italian oenologists' visit to Willmes is an impressive demonstration of how modern wine press technology, scientific research and international cooperation can go hand in hand. For us, this exchange is an important part of our philosophy: the pressing processes of the future can only be shaped through dialog with practitioners and an open eye for innovation.
If you would like to find out more about the Willmes pressing principle, our SPHERA or the latest research results on pressing, please contact us - or visit us at one of the upcoming trade fairs and events.
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