The German name for Schiava, "Vernatsch", derives from Latin "vernaculus", "native", and refers to its far-reaching history in Alto Adige. In the oldest written documentations, Schiava grigia was already named as the noblest of the Schiava varieties. This demanding Schiava clone excels on airy, sunny hillsides. On loamy, calciferous dolomite soils it develops into a harmonious wine with silky tannins. Herbal and spicy notes unite with enticing cherry, raspberry and forest fruit aromas. We recommend drinking this wine lightly cooled (13°C/55°F). Our Schiava grigia is perfectly suited to pizza, white meats or fish dishes.

Vineyards with western exposure in the southernmost part of Alto Adige, with their comfortably cool microclimates, constitute the most suitable locations for this variety with such exacting site requirements. Long-lasting, mild evening sun brings forth the typical Burgundy aromas on these clayey soils. In this way, the wine develops its lacy fruitiness of cherries, redcurrants and red forest berries which is underlined by its spicy aromas. On the palate this wine is fresh, with elegant body and juicy tannins. Enjoy lightly cooled (16°C/61°F).

Cabernet Franc has been cultivated in Kurtatsch since the founding years of the winery in 1900, thanks to the southern location and favourable exposure of the area. The warm microclimate and well-drained soils provide ideal conditions for the ripening of this noble grape variety. VENTIS, derived from the Latin word for wind, impresses with a pronounced, multi-layered and spicy aromatic profile, complemented by subtle notes of dark berries. Ethereal nuances of mint and juniper intertwine with pepper, liquorice and red currants, creating a clear alpine character. On the palate, the wine is fresh and precise: vibrant acidity and exceptionally smooth tannins lend tension and drinkability, making VENTIS already expressive yet approachable in its youth.

Lagrein is considered the oldest autochthonous grape variety of Alto Adige. FLUVIA, derived from the Latin word fluvius (river), reveals itself in the glass with an enticing richness of aromas of forest and elderberries, black cherries and a subtle hint of cocoa. The restrained ageing in French barriques adds delicate toasted notes and further depth. On the palate, juicy fruit, vibrant freshness and velvety tannins come together in a harmonious whole. This grape variety, often described as “rustic”, presents itself here as surprisingly fine and well balanced. The spicy, fruit-driven finish is clear and light-footed, lingering long on the palate. An exceptionally elegant and harmonious Lagrein that immediately invites another sip.

The Additional Geographical Unit (UGA) Penon-Hofstatt lies above the village of Kurtatsch. Cooling fall winds in the evening provide for large temperature swings between day and night and create an ideal, breezy microclimate. The mineral-rich structure of dolomite, quartz, mica and clay minerals is still visible in house or dry masonry walls in this hamlet and characterizes this extraordinary UGA wine. In the glass, it shines with delicate apple and pear, ripe lime and lemon balm aromas. On the palate, these are accompanied by discreet notes of Alpine flowers and herbs. The straightforward wine gains smooth texture through its ageing in large oak barrels, rounding out the lively acidity.

To tap the enormous potential of this grape variety, consequent attention in the vineyard along with strongly reduced yield and a top location are necessary. In the UGA Penon in the high-lying hamlet of Penon from 450 to 700 m a. s.l., yield is inherently lower. The elevation and the porous dolomite soil result in an elegant, structured wine. Owing to the lengthy period of ripening, PENON develops a meaty mineral structure in addition to its dense body and invigorating acidity. The bouquet is highly complex and reminiscent of yellow peaches, old pear varieties and cantaloupe. A wine that shows what Pinot grigio can be.