This region is split between two unique cultures and cuisines.
Trentino-Alto Adige is a unique wine region in a number of ways, but one of the things that sets it apart from other Italian wine regions are its two distinct cultures. This part of Italy was historically under Austrian rule and thus has strong roots in Austrian culture and cuisine. The vineyards here are also located near the Swiss border, which is another source of influence for the wines produced here.
While this region is best known for traditional Germanic-style varietals such as Gewurtztraminer and Kerner, the landscape offers plenty of room for varietals like Pinot Grigio to flourish as well. Trentino-Alto Adige is, after all, an Italian region at heart, so you’ll find some Italian grapes in its vineyards too.
The region is known for making a variety of different wines.
As you might gather from the name, Trentino-Alto Adige is located in the northernmost corner of Italy, bordering Austria and Switzerland. It produces red, white, rosé and sparkling wines that are divided into four appellations based on grape ripeness: Delle Venezie (the least ripe), Trentino (second), Alto Adige (third) and Trento DOCG (the ripest). The area also has a large sub-category of “IGT,” which refers to wines that were formerly labeled as VDT (“Vino da Tavola”) but were upgraded to IGT (“Indicazione Geografica Tipica”) status in 1992.
Local wines can be divided into four appellations based on the level of ripeness the grapes reach.
Trentino-Alto Adige is a unique wine region because it can be divided into four appellations based on the level of ripeness the grapes reach. The northernmost locations, one of which is Monte Bondone, are the coolest, resulting in wines with high acidity and low alcohol content. To the south, where Merano is situated, there are more warm days and nights and less rainfall compared to other regions of Italy. In this appellation, grapes reach full maturity and contain a balance of acidity and alcohol levels. The next region over contains even warmer temperatures and has very little rainfall, so the grapes receive an excessive amount of sunshine hours. Therefore all varieties produced in this appellation have high alcohol content with slightly lower acidity levels than those found in neighboring regions.
A good example of a wine from Trentino-Alto Adige would be Nussbaumer’s Pinot Noirs (specifically their 2012 vintage) which have higher alcohol content than Pinots from Oregon or Burgundy because they grow in a much warmer location within Trentino-Alto Adige.
The average grape maturity has to meet specific sugar levels to be considered DOCG or DOC wines.
To be considered a DOCG or DOC wine, the average grape maturity has to meet specific sugar levels, depending on the type of wine. For example, for red wines grown in Alto Adige, the grapes have to have an average ripeness of at least 12.5 percent for DOC, and 13.5 percent for DOCG wines. The same goes for white wines; although the required numbers are lower since white grapes contain less sugar than do red grapes. However it’s important to note that this is only one of many factors taken into consideration when categorizing a wine as either DOCG or DOC.
Trentino-Alto Adige produces a large amount of indigenous grape varieties.
You’ll find a vast array of indigenous grapes here, though it’s good to keep in mind that some are also found in Austria and Switzerland. Grapes like Lagrein, Teroldego, and Muller Thurgau have their origins in Trentino-Alto Adige and nowhere else.
Some producers create single varietal wines, while others blend them to add layers of flavor and character.
Single varietal wines are made from one grape variety only. Producers who choose this option usually do so to highlight the specific qualities of that particular type of grape, and then make it the star of the wine.
Blends, on the other hand, can be made from anywhere between a couple different types of grapes to dozens. The point is to combine them in a way that highlights their best characteristics and adds complexity and layers of flavor to the wine. Blending can also help soften harsh or bitter flavors, though conversely it may reduce some desirable aromatic or flavor aspects as well.
The most famous wines are red, sparkling and dessert wines from the Trento area.
Wines from Trentino are famous in Italy and beyond. Much of the wine made here is consumed locally, but that doesn’t mean the wines should be overlooked by wine lovers elsewhere. The most famous wines are red, sparkling and dessert wines, all produced in the Trento area. The region’s unique topography of steep slopes and valleys allows for a variety of microclimates that let grapes like Lagrein, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir thrive.
Gewurztraminer is a white wine that shows the aromatic intensity and weight of the grape.
If you haven’t yet had the chance to try a Gewurztraminer, you’re in for a treat. This white wine is known for its sweet, spicy aroma and intense floral taste. The grape’s name comes from Germany, where it originated: gewurz means “spicy” or “perfumed”, while Traminer comes from the village of Tramin.
But no matter where the grapes are grown, the varietal has characteristics that make it instantly recognizable, especially after a few sips. Earthy and full-bodied when compared to some other whites, Gewurztraminer also packs more than its share of punch! It’s so robust that it can stand up quite nicely to food with heavier spices—unlike some other wines that would be smothered into submission by even light seasonings or marinades.
And if you’re looking for something different to try at your next wine tasting party (or just want something perfect for a romantic picnic), Gewurztraminer is sure to impress your guests with its exotic flavor profile and flowery bouquet.
The local cuisine and traditions go hand in hand with their native grapes and wine styles.
The cuisine here features savory and hearty dishes that are a reflection of the cold climate. The food is heavily influenced by both Austria and Italy, and features lots of dumplings, soups, stews and roasts. The area is also known for its cheeses, with Tirano perhaps being the most famous. They also have some very good cured meats (speck), fruit breads (most notably apple strudel), breads made from rye flour, and pasta is eaten more than rice.
Wine is an important part of the culture here as well; there are many wine bars scattered throughout the region where you can sample local wines alongside traditional nibbles like cheese or speck. As you travel through Trentino-Alto Adige it’s easy to stop for a bite to eat at one of these establishments before moving on to your next destination!