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Moscato Giallo or Goldmuskateller is an aromatic grape variety that has been cultivated in Alto Adige for centuries. Unlike the more usual sweet version, this Moscato Giallo is a dry wine.
Lagrein, one of the most typical red wine varieties of Alto Adige and the Bolzano Winery, thrives on the valley floor around Bolzano with its pronounced diurnal temperature variations. The grape variety produces intensely colored and complex wines with the typical acidity of Lagrein.
Merlot, one of the noble grape varieties, has been cultivated in Alto Adige for more than a hundred years. The grapes for this fruity and zesty wine, with its typical light vegetal notes, are harvested from selected vineyards.
The hill of Santa Maddalena to the north of Bolzano gives this classic Alto Adige wine its name. Schiava and Lagrein grow together in the vineyard.
Pinot Nero, or Pinot Noir in French, originates from Burgundy and has been cultivated in Alto Adige for more than a century. The grapes for this Pinot Nero grow on selected sites on the slopes of the Renon in the Bolzano area.
Pinot Grigio is one of Italy’s most prominent and also most noble white wines. In the subalpine climate of Alto Adige, the Pinot Grigio can develop its smoky aroma, powerful structure and its typical character and charm.
Pinot Blanc – or Pinot Bianco in Italian – was introduced to Alto Adige by Archduke John of Austria around 1850. It does best on sites with dry, loamy and calcareous soils and pronounced diurnal temperature variations.
Cabernet, one of the noble grape varieties, has been cultivated in Alto Adige for more than a hundred years. The grapes for this fruity and zesty wine are harvested from selected vineyards.
TAL 1930. Passion and patience were the perfect foundations for our first Superior cuvées. A lot of energy and experience, knowledge and commitment went into them. They are the result of years of unceasing research, of tireless experimentation by our winemakers and cellar master to compose the best grapes into a unique pleasure experience. This new Superior white wine recalls the beginnings of the Santa Maddalena Winery in 1930: a year, a number, of special significance for the history of wine-growing in Alto Adige – and for the Bolzano Winery. The contrast between mountain and valley, Alpine and Mediterranean, determines the character of the cuvée. The vineyards for our white varieties, Chardonnay, Sauvignon and Pinot Grigio, are located between the valley bottom and the slopes, sometimes gentle, sometimes steep, of the famous Renon near Bolzano. There is considerable variation in the sites at 400 - 700 meters above sea level, with changes in exposure and significant differences in temperature created by the sun of the Dolomites and the winds – strong at times – of the Isarco Valley.
Over 80-year-old vines grow around the most famous vineyard located in Gries “Taber” on sandy alluvial soils with porphyry. This historic vineyard in Gries is considered the undisputed top location for South Tyrol’s characterful indigenous grape variety. The name of the estate comes from the great-grandmother of the current manager, Klaus Mumelter. Through meticulous vineyard work, grapes of exorbitant quality are harvested year after year – albeit in very small quantities. A unique wine made for eternity, that delights with enormous power and spice- If you have the chance to get a bottle, you should grab it immediately!
In the mid-hill area around Bolzano, the grape varieties Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc find ideal conditions on heavy porphyry soils with a clay overlay. Influenced by thermal excursions, these two grape varieties can develop their complex aroma profile. Through consistent yield reduction, the necessary concentration and ripeness are achieved. The result is a powerful Cabernet blend, known since 1993 as ‘Mumelter,’ which does not shy away from comparison with the great red wines of the world, without denying its origin. To all wine lovers of the world: It is worth forgetting a few cases, observing the wine over two decades, and incorporating it into the next international Cabernet tasting – South Tyrolean Cabernet at its finest!
TAL 1908. Passion and patience provided the perfect foundations for our first Superior cuvées. A lot of energy and experience, knowledge and commitment went into them. They are the result of years of unceasing research, of tireless experimentation by our winemakers and cellar master, to compose the best grapes into a unique pleasure experience. We have given our Superior red an equally convincing name: TAL 1908, the founding year of the Gries Winery. Its history is bound up with three rivers, but it is the Talvera that has had the profoundest influence. Bolzano is not called Talvera Town for no reason. Its ancient flood plains have given winegrowers very special soils. These alluvial soils on porphyry offer the ideal foundation, especially for Lagrein, but also for Cabernet and Merlot. With its good permeability to water and its mineral deposits, Bolzano’s volcanic porphyry is one of the keys to wines of character. The bold idea for this red cuvée is an uncompromising composition of three wines, with careful selection in single vineyards – sun-blessed sites in the Bolzano basin cooled by the winds from the Sarentino Valley and selected vines, which are up to 50 years old and subject to strict yield management as with all our top products.
In the picturesque Siebeneich, on the outskirts of Bolzano, Merlot grapes of exceptional quality grow nestled among the gentle hills. This late-ripening variety benefits from the warming sun rays that heat the porphyry rocks during the day and the cool nights that ensure optimal ripening of the grapes. This Merlot has been produced since 1986 and is considered one of the most elegant wines South Tyrol has to offer. With its dark ruby red color, concentrated fruit, and enticing spice, it is a first-class Merlot and a milestone in South Tyrolean red wine history that one must try!
The care of the vineyard terraces at the “Moar” estate is unique and immediately catches the eye - a vineyard in perfection. Deeply rooted in humus-rich, permanently greened porphyry weathering soils stand the old Vernatsch and Lagrein vines. The canes lie tied to the pergola as if ironed. Thomas Falser is known throughout the growing area as a perfectionist. The small-berried grapes produce a highly elegant and profound Magdalener with a velvety texture, with great concentration on the palate and extended ageing potential - a masterpiece of a Magdalener!
In the immediate vicinity of the modern winery building, Lagrein of exceptional quality thrives on warm alluvial soils. Some of the best sites, planted with old Lagrein vines, are blended with a small proportion of Merlot – between 10 and 20% depending on the vintage – to create the wine MAURITIUS, which bears the ancient Latin name of the village. The old vines naturally produce low yields, which are further reduced by halving the grapes. This results in a concentrated and powerful red wine. This limited cuvée, mainly composed of Lagrein, embodies the identity and character of South Tyrol and gains comparability with international wines, such as those from Bolgheri or Bordeaux, through the Merlot component. MAURITIUS is a unique character wine with international charm.
Around the “Thalman” farm in Ritten, Pinot Noir finds ideal conditions at an altitude of 600 meters. Sun-drenched vines grow on porphyry weathering soils with an idyllic view of the Rosengarten. From a young age, Gottfried Lun took responsibility on the farm and learned to love his Pinot Noir vines. Due to the altitude and the cool downdrafts from the Rosengarten, a highly elegant, delicate representative of the variety can be harvested, which does not shy away from comparison with the sinfully expensive wines from Burgundy. Complexity, depth, and delicacy are the order of the day here!
One of Alto Adiges most significant traditional wines grows around the historic “Huck am Bach” estate on the edge of the Rivelaunbach in St. Magdalena. The dry-stone walls of the vineyard terraces were built stone by stone by the Plattner family many decades ago. First labeled and bottled in 1990 with the bright orange label - back then still in a Bocksbeutel bottle - this wine has been captivating for decades with its enchanting drinkability, freshness, and savoriness. A monument of South Tyrolean wine history that is indispensable on South Tyrolean dining tables and delights sommeliers worldwide. An absolute must for every Alto Adige lover!
Via Rafenstein, one of the steepest roads from Bolzano to St. Georgen, you reach the “Steger” farm, where, among other things, Chardonnay of extraordinary quality grows. The Pircher family has been cultivating the surrounding steep areas entirely by hand with great dedication for 400 years. Due to the barren porphyry soils and the old vines, the yields are tiny but of outstanding quality. A wine full of pressure and tension, with rich melt. An indispensable experience for all Chardonnay enthusiasts!
Near the new winery building of Kellerei Bozen, just outside the city of Bolzano, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc grow on porphyry soils with a clay overlay, nestled among gentle hills. Christian Graf Huyn, the owner and caretaker of Steinerhof, tends the vineyards entirely by hand. For Count Huyn, sustainability is paramount. ‘Since I live with my family right in the vineyard, we carefully consider the methods we employ.” Through the skillful oak management and the delicate extraction of tannins, a balanced, harmonious Cabernet blend is created that is not tiring but invigorating. A South Tyrolean Cabernet with dangerous drinkability!
In Signat, above Bolzano, at an altitude of 550 meters around the “Kleinstein” farm, the grapes for this balanced and refreshing Chardonnay grow on vulcanic soils. The Mayr family tends and cares for the vineyards at 650 meters with great dedication. A gentle approach to resources and a high awareness of biodiversity characterizes the family’s vineyard work. The vines are on average 25 years old. High temperature differences between day and night give the wine expressive fruit-character, body, as well as finesse and elegance. A top-class food companion with breathtaking texture and alpine freshness.
The Rafensteinerweg, one of the steepest roads in Bolzano, you reach the mighty Rafenstein castle ruins, which tower above the entrance to the Sarntal valley. Right at the beginning of the path, at an altitude of 700 meters, Pinot Noir, which love the cool climate in St. Georgen, is cultivated around the historic “Bachmannhof” on an even steeper terrace. The slope here can be up to 60%. The maintenance of the vine terraces is extremely labor-intensive. Robert Oberkofler is one of those young winemakers who didn’t want to do everything differently but wanted to do many things better. “As winemakers, we are dependent on the whims of nature, but that also makes each vintage something very special.” The high temperature differences between day and night, as well as the weathered porphyry soils, give the Pinot Noir BACHMANN a unique character: delicate, expressive, spicy, and elegant. Steep, steeper, Bachmann!
The grapes for this highly elegant Pinot Blanc come from various sites around Missian. During the ripening phases, the vines are exposed to high temperatures during the day. At night, cool Dolomite winds from the Mendel provide refreshment. The mix of limestone and porphyry soils gives this wine a unique tension between salty, delicate freshness and powerful, spicy structure. Those seeking finesse, texture, brilliance, and character will find it here. An absolute insider tip for lovers of great Burgundy wines!
In Gries, the ‘Grand Cru’ area for the wild-growing Lagrein grape variety, grapes of extraordinary quality have been ripening near to the majestic cube for many centuries. The Eyrl family has been settled there for just as long. ‘I can’t say exactly when the estate came into our family’s possession, but my ancestors, the Barons and Baronesses of Eyrl, have owned properties around Bolzano for centuries.’ The grapes are pampered by the sun and the current owner, Alix Eyrl. For decades, a top-class Lagrein has been produced here. Dark fruit, velvety, spicy with a long finish.
Near the new majestic cube of Cantina BOZEN, just outside the city of Bozen, Merlot grapes grow on porphyry soils with a clay overlay, nestled between gentle hills. Christian Graf Huyn, the owner of the Steinerhof, work the vineyards entirely by hand. For Christian, sustainability is a top priority. ‘Since I live with my family right in the vineyard, you think twice about what methods you use. ‘ Warm days and cool nights provide optimal ripening conditions for Merlot. Juicy, velvety, spicy with dangerous drinkability– Alto Adige Merlot!
At an altitude of 650 meters, just above Bolzano, Gewürztraminer can develop its seductive aromas, characterized by significant temperature differences between day and night. The clayey-gravelly porphyry soils of volcanic origin naturally reduce yield and add a spicy mouthfeel to the wines. The Mayr family from the “Kleinstein” farm tends to the vineyards with great dedication. Their careful management of resources and strong awareness of biodiversity shape the family’s vineyard practices. The result is a powerful yet balanced Gewürztraminer that perfectly expresses the grape variety in its microclimatic context. Gewürztraminer can be different, but not more expressive!
Formed from a multitude of volcanic eruptions, the porphyry soil gives our wines their typicity. From various altitudes, all characterized by porphyry and organically cultivated, this refreshing and structured white wine cuvée is created. One third Chardonnay for smoothness, one third Pinot Blanc for freshness, and one third Pinot Grigio for structure – this is the formula for Laven. The archetype of a white wine cuvée from porphyry – spicy, fresh, powerful, and elegant! Volcanic rock to drink!
The grapes for this refreshing Sauvignon Blanc grow at the entrance of the Isarco Valley at an altitude of 500 meters around the ‘Mock’ farm, among oats, clover, and yellow mustard. Together with his father Karl, who already planted Sauvignon Blanc in the 1980s, Armin Platter cultivates the steep vineyard terraces. Shaped by the cool microclimate, a truly refreshing and elegant expression of the grape variety with subtle exotic fruit and plenty of herbal spice is created. Alpine Sauvignon par excellence - fresh, fresher, Mock!
Around the “Perl” estate in Bolzano, the grapes for this dark and juicy Lagrein grow. The mid-aged vines are planted on the former riverbed of the Talfer River, producing grapes with a great balance of sugar/acidity level. Through delicate tannin extraction, a wine is created that impresses with its balance and freshness. Juicy, stimulating, and with a silky texture, this wine presents itself as a timeless Lagrein classic - the perfect red wine for any barbecue as well as cozy evenings in good company.
In the mid-19th century, the Rosenmuskateller grape variety was imported from Sicily to South Tyrol, where it thrives particularly well around the winery in Gries. It is one of the rare gems of the South Tyrolean wine world. The total cultivated area is only 7 hectares. Rosenmuskateller prefers slightly loose soils, is demanding to cultivate, and yields very low quantities. Grapes with high must weights are air-dried in small wooden cases, concentrating sugar, acidity, and aroma. Subsequently, the mash fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks. The result is a brilliant red sweet wine with a seductive rose aroma. The perfect highlight to round off a wonderful meal or to accompany chocolate desserts – a must-try!
On the mid-slopes around the Bolzano basin, there are vineyards medium-aged Moscato Giallo vines. Thanks to the Mediterranean climate and heat-retaining soils, the grapes achieve a high level of ripeness, which is essential to produce sweet wines. After the harvest, the grapes are spread out by hand in small wooden crates and air-dried, allowing water to evaporate and concentrate aroma, sweetness, and acidity. Only in February of the following year the grapes are pressed very gently. The resulting must, known among connoisseurs as ‘liquid gold,’ ferments in barrique barrels, becoming one of South Tyrol’s most renowned dessert wines, an expressive, concentrated, and harmonious sweet wine. The perfect wine to round off a meal.
Moscato Giallo, or Goldmuskateller, has a typical nutmeg aroma, in this case paired with a light note of honeydew melon. A hint of residual sugar makes the wine deliciously smooth.
At an altitude of 600 meters around the Ceslar farm, the Gewürztraminer, deeply rooted in porphyry soils of volcanic origin, feels well. Perfect sun exposure and cooling by the fresh Dolomite winds lead to optimal ripening of the grapes. The Gasser family has been managing the “Ceslar” for several generations with great dedication. Through gentle vinification and skillful maceration, a fresh and expressive Gewürztraminer is created, embodying the alpine climate and the porphyry soil.
At an altitude of 750 meters in Signat, the Riesling feels visibly at home. The cool mountain air combined with ample sunshine provides ideal conditions for this grape variety. The vines, of medium age, stand on terraces. The porphyry soil of volcanic origin with a sandy-loamy top layer gives the vines a special spicy character. Since 1865, the Tutzer family has been managing the terraces entirely by hand. After selective hand harvesting, the wine is aged in stainless steel tanks. Unlike its German counterparts, the HOCHKOFLER is more powerful and drier, without losing the typical elegance of the variety. A top-class South Tyrolean Riesling!
Originating from France, Chardonnay has been cultivated in Alto Adige for more than a hundred years. This variety thrives on warm sites at higher elevations around Bolzano and produces an elegant wine with well-balanced acidity and a bouquet of exotic notes.
At an altitude of 760 meters on the steep slopes in Signat, above Bolzano, the Rottensteiner family farms under extreme conditions. On terraced vineyards, Kerner, a cross between Riesling and Vernatsch, grows on porphyry soils characterized by high temperature differences between day and night. The ancient chestnut trees show how Mediterranean the climate is. The warm days give the grapes ripeness and aromatic expressiveness. At night, fresh Dolomite winds provide the necessary cooling, emphasizing the fresh and racy character of the grape variety. The steep terraces require 100 percent manual labor. Vinified entirely in stainless steel tanks, a purist and crystalline wine is created, perfectly embodying its origin. A must for all lovers of fresh, straightforward white wines.
Alto Adige has been home to Silvaner for more than 200 years. The vines grow mainly on warm, well ventilated sites as found in the Isarco Valley and on the Renon. The Silvaner presents fresh and fruity, delicate and elegant.
Müller Thurgau, a popular variety named after Hermann Mülller as the man who produced the hybrid, yields fresh and aromatic wines with a pleasant lively opulence.
