South Tyrolean WineCultureAmbassador 2025: Willi Stürz honored
On Thursday, November 6, during the general assembly of the Vinum Hotels South Tyrol at the Gustelier – Atelier for Culinary Experience in Bolzano, renowned winemaker Willi Stürz (Cantina Tramin) was officially named South Tyrolean WineCultureAmbassador 2025.
With this award, WineCulture Marling and the Vinum Hotels South Tyrol honor personalities who have made outstanding contributions to South Tyrolean wine and its cultural significance.
Among the previous award winners are prominent figures of the South Tyrolean wine scene such as Hans Terzer, Alois Lageder, the Independent Winegrowers, Josef Reiterer, Elena Walch, Christine Mayr, Helmuth Köcher and Klaus Platter.
The jury evaluated the candidates according to clear criteria, including the strengthening and enrichment of South Tyrolean wine culture, the promotion of its values beyond regional borders, exceptional personal commitment, innovative approaches and sustainable achievements.
For the first time, the title was jointly awarded by WineCulture Marling and the Vinum Hotels South Tyrol – a collaboration that was initiated this summer during the celebration of “30 Years of the Re-establishment of the Stehweingesellschaft” at Castel Lebenberg.
During the ceremony, former WineCultureAmbassadors Christine Mayr and Helmuth Köcher were honored with a caricature by Peppi Tischler. The new awardee, Willi Stürz, received a plaque designed by Laurin Kofler, featuring a stylized wine barrel entwined with a vine.
The certificate recognizes his “outstanding commitment to the prestige of South Tyrolean wine” and his contribution to “strengthening the rich traditions and multifaceted world of wine within and beyond the region.”
The highlight of the evening was the heartfelt laudation by Sebastian Marseiler, who, with anecdotes and detailed insights, illuminated the impressive career and personality of the honoree.