Boasting almost 500 hectares of vineyards, the second largest vintner co-op in Markgraeflerland, and the third largest in Baden, has emerged.

On September 8 and 9 of this year, 88% of the Laufen co-op members and almost 100% of those in Auggen voted positively for the merger between the two co-ops, Winzergenossenschaft Laufen and Winzerkeller Auggener Schaef. Auggen is the absorbing company in this endeavor. “It is imperative for us that the individuality and characteristics of the Laufen wines remain recognizable, alongside the already existing Auggen assortment,” emphasizes Thomas Basler, the managing director in Auggen. This is in special recognition of the Laufen commitment to quality, which has recently been celebrated as the best vintner co-op in Germany by the German magazine “Weinwirtschaft.”

Several years ago Laufen introduced strict quality management policies. All the vineyards were evaluated, and accordingly, the vintners were given advice about planting, cultivating and harvesting, as well as strict rules to follow. “It’s similar to our quality management in Auggen, which has proven to be very fruitful. That’s why the Laufen wine image should stay so independent,” underlines Basler. The entire, formerly independent co-op will be further managed as a singular department. The delivery of grapes will continue at the Laufen location, as will the vinification. Even the Laufen label will remain the same. It is only for bottling and, in particular, for sales that the wines will appear at the cellar in Auggen. As a partner in the sales and marketing company “Weinland Baden,” Winzerkeller Auggener Schaef has a powerful, nationwide distribution potential at its disposal. In addition, business relations to China have recently been established.

This is a union of two strong partners who are meeting on eye-level, one that the Association of German Cooperatives in Baden-Württemberg heartily supports. 8.6 million Euro turnover come together with 3.5 million from Laufen. After the four-week limit for appeal, the merger is officially valid at the beginning of October.