Fritz Vineyard Chelmiec
Other tourist attractions
ul. Leśna, 33-395 Chełmiec
Tourist region: Gorce i Beskid Wyspowy
tel. +48 724333777
A small, family-run winery with a long tradition and a very colourful and storied history. Situated on the slope of so-called Mt Paścia in Chełmiec near Nowy Sącz, it was founded in 2009 by Bożena and Ryszard Fryc. Ten years later, it found its way onto the listings of the wineries on theMałopolska Wine Trail.
The winery is named after the original family name of the founder, Anton Fritz. He came from the Austrian Tyrol, rich in the wine-growing tradition, as part of the Josephine colonisation. He also owned a farm that would be later be home to his descendants, whose surname was polonised to Fryc. Mr Ryszard has committed himself to the cultivation of the winemaking tradition and has started producing his own wine. The vineyard's excellent location on a high southern slope effectively protects the vines from frost. Although it is only 21 acres, the owners have chosen to grow several grape varieties that are resistant to disease and which do well in our climate. Of the white varieties we find there are Seyval Blanc, Muscat Odessa, Johanniter and Solaris, and of the red are Rondo, Regent, Cabernet Cortis, Leon Millot, and Marechal Foch. The cultivated shrubs are fertilised with natural products, and chemical sprays are kept to a minimum. The vineyards in the garden are accompanied by other diverse plants, such as Japanese quince, dogwood, cherries, raspberries, elderberries and hibiscus, which undoubtedly beautify the area. Mr Ryszard prioritises the environment, and Fritz Vineyard is likely to receive the coveted organic certification soon. Interestingly, the winery was not set up for profit, as all profits from sales go to the MADA Foundation, which Mr and Mrs Fryc also set up. It supports children in need with autism and their families. It is also the site of an occupational therapy workshop, where MADA Foundation wards help run the vineyard and wine production. The owners have also been producing their liqueurs for years, which will likely go on sale once the concession is granted. It is a unique building with a beautiful history that is worth visiting.