Wines from Alto Adige, Italy - Wine of the Week

by Kristine Hansen, Posted Nov 18th 2010 @ 5:00PM

Italy's Alto Adige region, also called Südtirol, may only produce less than 1% of Italy's total wine production but the bottles coming out of that part of the country's Northern pocket are worth seeking out. The range of varietals is vast, from acidic whites like Sauvignon Blanc to lighter-style reds like Pinot Noir, as well as red-wine blends that demonstrate generations of experience. This is Italy's oldest wine-making region. A mountainous zone with about 300 days of sunshine each year, it is bordered by Austria and Switzerland.

We recently had a chance to taste wines from this region. Here are our six favorites.

St. Michael-Eppan 2008 Lagrein Red Wine ($16)
A nose of cocoa powder is a sweet touch. So are the intense cherry and raspberry notes that cascade into a light, delicate finish with plenty of length and richness.

Cantina Kellerei Andrian St. Magdalener 2008 Red Wine ($20)
(85% Schiava and 15% Lagrein)
In the glass, this red wine is very light in color and shows a garnet hue. There is a touch of smoke on the nose that gently eases into complex raspberry notes accented by violets. A delicate infusion of spices on the finish contributes to its lingering on the palate.

Erste + Neue 2009 Gewurztraminer ($23)
Jasmine aromas coupled with notes of roses and honeysuckle wrap up into a finish that's balanced and clean.

Terlano Vineyards 2009 Pinot Noir ($25)
Herbal and dried-fruit notes on this wine make it a distinct take on a grape varietal that flourishes in many regions around the world. Less fruit-forward and more about balance and delicate berries, it has soft tannins on the finish.

Tiefenbrunner 2008 Pinot Bianco ($16)
Fresh and lively, this white wine has a backbone of minerals that coast through to the finish, which lingers on the palate. Notes of pineapple and cream mesh well with a nose of flowers.

Tramin 2009 Sauvignon Blanc ($17)
A slight departure from New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs, and even their crisp and snappy counterparts in California, this style is more grassy than it is acidic.

Filed Under: Drinks
Tags: Alto Adige, italian wine, Italy, wine