Wines from South Tyrol and Trentino

Troy is no ordinary Chardonnay. Rather, it is the archetype of a Chardonnay, as Wolfgang Klotz, managing director of what is probably the most successful winegrowers' cooperative in South Tyrol, sees it. The grapes come from two selected vineyards in Söll, near Tramin. The climate there is not only Mediterranean, but the vegetation is also characterised by rather cold downdraughts at night. Both factors guarantee optimal development of the plants and fruit. The berries are hand-picked one by one, so it is clear to any wine connoisseur that this is an absolutely prestigious project for the co-operative. It is therefore not surprising that only 3,000 bottles of this grape variety are sold in selected specialist shops and top restaurants.

Intense straw to golden yellow in colour. On the nose, tropical fruit, a hint of camomile and mint, then fine roasted notes and a subtle nutty flavour. On the palate, you can almost taste the proximity of the mountains, its clarity, freshness and intensity: exotic notes of ripe yellow fruit, then some nutty flavours and again a beguiling liveliness and minerality that ends in an equally long final. Chardonnay can be like this, chapeau! SUPERIORE.DE

"Fine toast, spice, lemon zest, pie crust and roasted pineapple aromas. Flavorful and concentrated on the palate, with a full body. This is quite textural, broad and long. A serious, substantial chardonnay that went through adequate wood cultivation for refinement." James Suckling

San Leonardo is the flagship of the winery of the same name and one of the best red wines in Trentino every year. Opulent bouquet with nuances of dark fruit such as blackberry and sour cherry. Delicate spice, leather and tobacco notes give it a terrific complexity, which is then extended on the palate by a harmonious interplay of dark berries and plums, all flanked by clearly contoured tannins. A masterful red with a strong personality that will reach its true greatness after a few more years of bottle ageing and live up to its reputation. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, impenetrable ruby red colour. Cool nose of blackcurrant with a hint of red pepper. On the palate, juicy blackcurrant with the softest tannins, as if everything had been handled with kid gloves." Jancis Robinson

"A graceful red wine that begins quietly with a pure note of ripe blackcurrant and slowly expands on the palate to interweave flavours of bay leaf and smoked tobacco, bitter cherry, minerals, graphite and cigar box spice. The fine-meshed spectrum of flavours reveals supple tannins that define the elegant finish." Wine Spectator

"A mentholated freshness introduces the 2018 San Leonardo as it slowly blossoms in the glass. Swirling the glass, a depth of dusty sage and violet unfolds, fading into white pepper and blackcurrant. This wine is elegant, full-bodied and powerful. Sour citrus fruits highlight ripe wild berries and savoury spices. The 2018 leaves nothing out and finishes long and lightly structured, with a framework of fine tannins that gently tug at the senses as blackberry and rose notes slowly fade away. The 2018 is an understated and youthful beauty that should be left in the cellar for a few more years. That means hands off, because the best is yet to come." Vinous

"The latest edition of this outstanding northern Italian red wine offers complex aromas of tobacco, spice, earth and rich, wood-soaked black berries. In the mouth, it combines intense concentration with freshness in a vertical sense of balance and savouriness. Dark, plummy, spicy hedgerow berries are perfectly balanced by bright, savoury acidity and ripe, grainy tannins, with spicy cedar, dried currants and a hint of balsamic depth. It still has so much to offer." Decanter

"The 2018 San Leonardo from a cool vintage is incredibly fine and beautiful, with a filigree of flavours reminiscent of wild blackberries, tobacco, pressed rosemary, cherry tart and orange marmalade. The elegance of the wine is exceptional, the mouthfeel very fine and precise. This classic vintage will certainly appeal to San Leonardo purists. I recommend giving it a long maturation period." Wine Advocate

"Perhaps the only Bordeaux from Trentino capable of evolving to emerge with personality even today, in a vintage of grace. Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenère and Merlot. Jammy cherries, undergrowth, juniper and rhubarb, dense and savoury, crisp and compact mouthfeel, wonderfully persistent finish." Luca Gardini

The grapes for this top Chardonnay come from clayey limestone soils interspersed with angular white dolomite rock. Intense straw yellow in colour with greenish reflections. The aroma is complex, characterised by exotic fruit, white pepper and a delicate spicy note. Voluminous, enveloping and engaging on the palate, with a powerful structure and a juicy, very harmonious acidity. The final is almost endless, a very great Chardonnay from South Tyrol. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, sparkling straw yellow colour. Reductive nose with delicate aromas of banana, mango, hazelnuts, later some passion fruit. Mineral, razor-sharp palate with a fine melt, juicy, racy, well-integrated wood, slightly salty, harmonious pressure, long-lasting final." Falstaff

"Is currently still characterised by ageing, remains restrained, somewhat reductive. With air comes a hint of vanilla, then spice. Slight melting on the palate, clearly salty and spicy behind it. Exceptionally vertical, no fat, ravishingly straight." Vinum

"A hint of honeysuckle wafts through the flavours of pineapple and clementines, pickled ginger and salted Marcona almonds in this finely tuned white wine. It's well cut, with mouthwatering acidity driving the finish with chalk, flint and spice accents." Wine Spectator

"Baked apples with warm honey and aromas of fresh pie crust pour from the glass of this rich Chardonnay. Forward and loaded with ripe orchard fruit and apricot flavours with a hint of lemon oil, all balanced by fresh mountain acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"This wine is so floral and perfumed with cooked apple slices and a hint of honey. Fascinating. Medium to full-bodied with a serious presence and a complex palate of apple pie, peach, sandalwood and minerals. Beautiful flavours and intensity. Grand Cru level." James Suckling

A proud, pure Pinot Nero vintage sparkling wine: strong golden yellow colour, fine, elegant, wonderfully long-lasting perlage. Inviting bouquet of fresh stone fruit, delicate hints of baked goods and blossom honey, plus a hint of citrus. Good complexity on the palate, charming fruit and a hint of roasted flavour. Dry and wonderfully long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense straw yellow with a golden shimmer, fine, persistent mousseux. Elegantly restrained on the nose, reminiscent of sea breeze, some peach and lemon, followed by crusty bread. Structured and racy on the palate, pleasantly creamy, vibrant acidity, animating, salty finish, good length." Falstaff

"This graceful sparkler is round and plushly creamy on the palate, offering a bright backbone of citrusy acidity and a streak of salinity meshed with flavors of baked white cherry and toasted almond, plus hints of glazed tangerine and lemon thyme." Wine Spectator

"100% Pinot Noir aged for six years on the lees lifts from the glass aromas from an almost opened bakery with fresh croissants and fruit tarts being pulled from the oven. Drizzled honey, cream and roasted almond aromas quickly follow to entice you further into the glass. The richness is immediate with baked orchard fruit and lemon peel striking a pose on the palate as creme fraiche and subtle berry hints pop on the the palate that struts to the finish where pure mountain minerality embraces the palate and sharpens the wine to a fine point." Wine Enthusiast

Pinot Noir, which originates from France, has been cultivated in South Tyrol since 1850. The best sites, low yields, meticulous care and perfectionism in the cellar guarantee a fine, extremely sensual Pinot Noir with considerable ageing potential. Brilliant ruby-garnet colour. Delicious aromas of small berries, violets, cloves, smoke and vanilla. With age, the aroma gains interesting notes of porcini mushrooms and truffles. In the glass, the well-structured Pinot Nero Sanct Valentin shines with finesse, balance, spicy smoothness, fine tannins and a subtly integrated woody note. Pure seduction! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with brick reflections. Complex nose with ripe raspberry and some mocha. Precise, elegant and somewhat spicy on the palate, fine-grained tannins paired with a long finish." Falstaff

San Leonardo is the flagship of the winery of the same name and one of the best red wines in Trentino every year. Opulent bouquet with nuances of dark fruit such as blackberry and sour cherry. Delicate notes of spices, leather and tobacco give it a terrific complexity, which is then enhanced on the palate by a harmonious interplay of dark berries and plums, all flanked by clearly contoured tannins. A masterful red with a strong personality that will reach its true greatness after a few more years of bottle ageing and live up to its reputation. SUPERIORE.DE

"Transparent garnet red colour. High-toned, with balsamic notes and some black pepper. Extremely graceful - not intrusive. Already very likeable, but with time it will certainly develop even more complexity. A wine for the table and with food that is not too intrusive." Jancis Robinson

"Though carrying an elegant sense of poise, this supple, medium- to full-bodied red isn't all laced up. Instead, its fragrant tobacco and espresso accents to the ripe black and red currant fruit flavors are flashes that impart well-tailored charm. Long and refreshing, with fine-grained tannins emerging on the creamy finish of spice and mineral notes." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 San Leonardo is unmissable and epitomises everything I love about this northern Italian Bordeaux blend. Masses of white pepper, sage, incense, sandy earth and fresh tobacco give way to dusty redcurrants. This wine is a paragon of elegance yet savoury and flavoursome at its core, with mineral red and black fruits flowing over a silky texture. The 2019 finishes classically dry with a crisp tannin but retains an impossible freshness as the savoury herbal tones slowly fade. It's stunning and reminiscent of the absolute top vintages I've ever tasted from San Leonardo." Vinous

"The cool profile of this wine is evident in the fresh and spicy aromas of red and blackcurrant, leafy lightness, capsicum and leather with a hint of smoke. The complexity of the nose is supported by an elegant palate, with a structure of filigree tannins, crisp, integrated acidity, a medium body and a long, super spicy aftertaste reminiscent of dark cherries." James Suckling

The strong ruby-red Pinot Nero Schweizer, which is only produced in the best vintages, is a masterpiece. Its bouquet is large, complex and reminiscent of very ripe small wild berries. These special flavours are also found in the mouth, in combination with ripe, candied dark cherry and delicate floral and red berry notes. Juicy, wide-ranging palate, mouth-filling and with delicate, sveltenuances and an inviting and slightly tannic body which, together with the well-proportioned acidity, gives the wine a long life. SUPERIORE.DE

"This has an elegant and pretty nose of sage, mushrooms, red berry fruit, orange slices, wet stones and minerals. It’s sleek, fresh and tight-grained, with a medium body and a precise finish." James Suckling

Deep and impenetrable. Tor di Lupo shows opulent fruit with dried plums and prunes. It is a full-bodied and dense red wine that goes best with succulent meats such as lamb or steak. There is a hint of bitter almond on the long, generous finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dense, fruity bouquet with blue and black berries, including very ripe red fruit. On the palate, it has a velvety strength and texture, quite melting without appearing fat, more like an athlete dressed in velvet." Weinwisser

"Deep dark, almost black purple colour. Somewhat closed on the nose with earthy notes and hints of tar and blackberries. More accessible in the mouth with savoury fruit, dark chocolate, juicy, long and persistent on the finish." Falstaff

"Elegant and aromatic, with notes of ripe red berries and spices that lead to black plums and sultanas on the palate." Decanter

"On the nose, it shows decadence and a deep forest character with aromas of dark berries, black mushrooms, old wood and black berries that develop into a medium body with fine layers of tannins and a concentrated finish." James Suckling

Adjacent to the Kolbenhof there is an extremely steep vineyard, "Leiten" in South Tyrol, which is more south-facing. It descends into the deep gorge of the Hell Valley and is exposed to a very special microclimate. Thanks to the persistent coolness, the grapes ripen slowly and are harvested by hand only in November. They are then overripe and particularly tasty - ideal for the Gewürztraminer Spätlese Rechtenthaler Schloßleiten.

Opulent fruit aromas such as highly ripe apricots, Williams pear, blossom honey, acacia. In the glass, it presents itself with a highly concentrated aroma and acidity, expansive and dense. The fruit sweetness remains opulent and elegant on the palate for a long time. SUPERIORE.DE

The top red Riserva from the Bolzano winery has been the undisputed Lagrein Taber for years, with a fine bouquet of wild berry fruit, herbal flavours and spicy notes. Taber is a dense, full-bodied wine with a pleasant acidity and silky tannins, finishing with notes of candied fruit. A top wine from over 80-year-old vines on the Taberhof farm near Gries and a contender for the "Tre Bicchieri" of the Gambero Rosso almost every year. The best Lagrein Riserva in South Tyrol? Find out for yourself! SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep dark purple colour. On the nose, rich heart cherry, blackberry juice, dried violets, with fragrant black bread notes and some precious wood. Very juicy on the palate, tightly woven, fruity, stretches over the tongue with great and fresh notes, savoury, complex and drinky at the same time, exciting and vibrant." Falstaff

"The 2021 Lagrein Riserva Taber opens to plummy and very ripe aromas of blackberry confit, pitted prunes and a savory tone of suede or new leather. Lagrein usually has a pronounced creamy side, and you feel that here, especially in terms of the wine's thick texture and soft tannins. This 2021 vintage is thickly extracted and dense." Wine Advocate

"A dark and ripe red that impresses with aromas of liquorice, chocolate, cassis and mulberries. Full-bodied and fleshy, with chewy but soft tannins and generous, spicy oak that complements the ripe fruit. An intense Lagrein." James Suckling

"The classic, almost impenetrable, deep blackberry red colour that is so typical of this grape variety. Blackberry and sloe fruit dominate the nose and palate, with notes of dark chocolate and roasted spices. Full and round with ripe tannins, the wine is approaching an early peak but should keep well over the next five to seven years." Decanter

The St. Michael-Eppan winery began crowning selected varietal wines for the first time with the 2015 vintage. Only just over 3,000 bottles of these top selections are sold worldwide each year. In 2019, the choice again fell on a single-varietal Sauvignon Bianco from the best grapes from selected micro-locations. Gentle pressing with 3 days of skin contact, followed by 12 months of fermentation in tonneau and a further 15 months on the fine lees in stainless steel tanks give it a unique depth and finesse. After a further 9 months in the bottle, it is released for sale.

Brilliant straw yellow colour. Lots of substance on the nose, dark, cool, caramel, toffee, also mint. Very precise and taut on the palate, lots of extract, dense, with perfect, straightforward acidity underneath. And a finish that lingers for minutes. This Sauvignon can compete with the best in the world every year. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright straw yellow with a fine lustre. Opens on the nose with notes of elderflower and ripe redcurrants. Full-bodied and with good weight on the palate, lots of juicy fruit and savoury components, lingers for a long time, interwoven." Falstaff

"The 2019 Sauvignon The Wine Collection is dusty and floral. A hint of candy spice gives way to dried flowers and ginger-laced green apples. It's very structured and expertly balanced, with a pretty inner sweetness contrasted by salty minerals and bright acidity as tart fruit cascades. It finishes with tension and remarkable length, ending on a pleasantly bitter note. Simply stunning." Vinous

"Intense and creamy nose with golden berries, quince, smoke, sweet spices and sour cream. Full-bodied and very flavourful on the palate with integrated oak spices and a savoury, long finish." James Suckling

"Opening to a lemony-yellow color, the 2019 Sauvignon The Wine Collection has a developed nose with apricot, candied tangerine or orange sherbet. It leans closer to stone fruit aromas, but there are tropical hints buried in there as well with ripe mango and pineapple. The wine closes with a waxy, medium-plus texture. A note of spicy vanilla develops nicely with time in the glass." Wine Advocate

"One of the top expressions of a label line that has made history. Multi-faceted olfactory profile, bergamot, cedar wood, nectarine and pink grapefruit. The palate is savoury-salty, with a citrusy and crisp finish, deep and with great freshness." Luca Gardini

Pinot Noir, which originates from France, has been cultivated in South Tyrol since 1850. The best sites, low yields, accurate care and perfectionism in the cellar guarantee a fine, extremely sensual Pinot Noir with considerable ageing potential. In his constant search for perfection, cellar master Hans Terzer presents this year the third edition of the Pinot Noir Riserva "The Wine Collection". SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby with light rim. Opens with slightly smoky notes, behind it fine forest raspberry, some blackberry, after spicy forest floor. Gripping, gripping tannin in the attack and course, shows a lot of pressure, dark berry fruit, can still mature for a long time." Falstaff

"A dark-fruited and spicy red with aromas of mushrooms, bay leaves, incense, espresso, dark cherries and black plums. Firm tannins frame a toasty core of dark-berry fruit. Medium to full body." James Suckling

"The St. Michael-Eppan 2018 Alto Adige Pinot Noir Riserva The Wine Collection shows medium-rich fruit weight and a dark ruby hue. The wine presents a modern or contemporary expression of the Burgundian grape from the cool mountain climate of the Italian Dolomites. It concludes with soft shades of oak spice and toast." Wine Advocate

"A sumptuous Pinot Noir, the final result of a 25-year-long research. The nose is faceted and shows great variety of sensations, such as sour cherries and orange zest, rhubarb and undergrowth. Breathtaking density to the palate, iodine-brackish tannins and balsamic finish with return of rhubarb." Luca Gardini

Noble, white cuvée made from Pinot Bianco, Chardonnay and Sauvignon, as majestic as the Terlan castle ruins of the same name. Powerful and complex, multi-faceted, exotic and mineral, this classic Terlaner brings out the advantages of the growing region with a strong character. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, bright straw yellow colour with a green sparkle. Polished and very precise nose, opens with notes of ripe apple, some pear, then walnuts, but also grapefruit and subtle thyme spice in the background. Very tense on the palate, very precise, salty, with fine yellow fruit notes, lingers for a very long time, juicy." Falstaff

"The Terlaner Riserva Cuvée Nova Domus 2021 presents itself with an airy bouquet in which ground ginger mingles with dusty dried flowers, crushed green apples and spice flavours. The palate is lapped up by a silky texture and ripe fruit. Sour citrus notes provide a contrast, accompanied by lively acidity. The 2021 finishes full of youthful tension and with light tannins that leave a savoury sensation and a hint of bitter lemon peel that lead the taster back to the glass." Vinous

"Pretty aromas of hazelnut, beeswax and floral notes, yuzu, mandarin, preserved lemon and spices on the palate." Decanter

"Aromas of warmed pears with spices, delicate white flowers and the peel of lemons, limes and kumquats. On the palate, there is an invigorating acidity carried by citrus oils, fresh herbs and a pronounced sharpness that not only revitalises the palate but also the soul." Wine Enthusiast

"This is a very straightforward white wine with tension and acidity that kicks in at the end, giving it fantastic energy and length. It is medium to full-bodied with sliced pineapple, lemon and green apple before a lively finish. There are also undertones of lemongrass and tarragon. Complex and complete. Better after 2025, but already exciting to drink now." James Suckling

Pinot Noir, which originates from France, has been cultivated in South Tyrol since 1850. The best sites, low yields, meticulous care and perfectionism in the cellar guarantee a fine, extremely sensual Pinot Noir with considerable ageing potential. In his constant search for perfection, cellar master Hans Terzer presents the fourth edition of the Pinot Noir Riserva "The Wine Collection" this year.

Notes of sour cherry, redcurrant, rose petals, minty herbs and floral undergrowth. On the palate, it impresses at this youthful stage with ripe red and light blue berries, mineral underpinnings and bright acids that slowly mingle with savoury spices. A layer of fine tannin lingers and flexes the wine's structural muscles, even if the core of ripe primary fruit remains firm. With just 3,300 bottles, this is a real rarity and one of the great Pinot Noirs of South Tyrol every year. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with a brightening rim. Expressive and dark berry, rich nose, of forest fruits and ripe cherries, some mint, also of malt, complex, comes back on rich cherry. Great structure on the palate, with polished, tightly woven tannins and savoury acidity, plus fine precious wood, powerful, long. Can still spend some time in the bottle." Falstaff

"Opulent and inviting, with a nose of cigar box, leather and coffee, then the palate is laced with blackcurrant, cola and spice." Decanter

"The 2019 Pinot Noir Riserva The Wine Collection presents a smoky blend of wild berries, peppery herbs and flowers. It has a soft texture and a pure style, with red fruits and lavender tones layered over a core of zesty acidity. The wine finishes on a spicy note, while the savoury acidity leaves the mouth watering and a hint of liquorice slowly fades." Vinous

"A wonderful Pinot Noir from South Tyrol that shows excellent depth and complexity. Dark cherries, berries, dried roses, forest floor and dark mushrooms. On the palate, chalky tannins with fresh acidity and fruit. Juicy, firm and very long and airy on the finish." James Suckling

"This is a bright and vibrant expression of the Burgundian grape variety from Alpine Italy. Pinot Noir Riserva The Wine Collection 2019 shows bright berry fruit, candied orange peel, pressed violets and a sweeter note of rye bread or honey muesli. There is a hint of cinnamon or cardamom on the finish." Wine Advocate

The single-varietal Cabernet Sauvignon Toren is the only red cru from Tiefenbrunner's rare Vigna line and comes from a 0.6 ha micro-location with clay and limestone gravel soils: sparkling garnet red with a slight violet tinge. Very intense and appealing nose, with aromas of cassis, blackberry, tobacco and mint. Rich, concise fruit on the palate, mountains of cassis and cranberries, juicy and dense, builds beautifully with ripe tannins, long final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, impenetrable ruby colour. Dense and appealing nose with dark berry fruit, cassis and blackberry, plus spicy notes with hints of cardamom and eucalyptus. Very good presence on the palate, lots of berry fruit here too, then opens up with very well-placed, grippy tannins, spans a wide arc, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

This dry Gewürztraminer from the Pirchschrait single vineyard at Kolbenhof is a tribute to Konrad Oberhofer, who was the first to vinify the grapes from individual vineyards separately in the 1930s. Martin Foradori Hofstätter's grandfather was a pioneer of vineyard thinking. His goal was to make the special character of each site tangible in the wine.

After ten years of maturation on the fine yeast in 500-litre barrels, the Gewürztraminer develops a dense texture without losing freshness. The fine yeast also gives it a charming aroma of toasted bread, medlars, blossom honey and dried fruits. In contrast, the already low fruit sweetness recedes discreetly in the years of ageing, while the minerality gains in expression. In the glass, the top-quality Pirchschrait impresses with a subtle interplay of flavours. SUPERIORE.DE

"Perfumed nose of rose petals, dried mango, passion fruit, Turkish delight, beeswax and brioche. Rounded, soft palate with cumin and curry." Decanter

Granato has been an exceptional Teroldego for years: It convinces in the bouquet with its rich balsamic scent of sour cherries and red currants. Extract-rich and intense, powerful and extremely precise on the palate. A great wine that reflects the long-standing consistency and competence of this winemaker. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2020 Teroldego Granato is so youthful yet so beautiful, rising from the glass with an infectiously spicy bouquet that is at times autumnal, at times savoury, mingling with dark red fruits. The palate is flooded with a wave of intense raspberries and wild berries that quickly saturate, but with a hint of sour citrus for a nice balance. A pretty inner sweetness lingers as it finishes structured and remarkably long with a refreshing hint of inner rose and wild strawberry that lingers on. It's powerful but also elegant and perfectly balanced for a long evolution." Vinous

"This wine shows deep red and dark berries with peppery notes, dark chocolate, hibiscus and grapefruit peel. Just a hint of cedar and smoked herbs. Full and concentrated, so stable and dense with lively, finely honed tannins and vibrant acidity giving the wine power and highlighting the savoury fruit and minerality. Very long and tense." James Suckling

"Iconic wine, one of the expressive peaks of Teroldego. Fermentation in open oak vats, ageing in acacia and cement casks, great freshness on the nose, redcurrants, touches of wild mint and rhubarb, on the palate it is dense-sweet, with a fruity-balsamic return and a finish on underbrush notes." Luca Gardini

1908 is the year in which the Gries winery was founded. The history of the winery is closely linked to three rivers, but it is the Talvera that has shaped it the most. Bolzano is not called the city of Talvera for nothing. The old floodplains have given the winegrowers very special soils. These alluvial soils on porphyry provide the ideal basis for Lagrein in particular, but also for Cabernet and Merlot. With its good water permeability and mineral deposits, Bolzano's volcanic porphyry has always been one of the keys to wines full of character.

The idea behind this red wine cuvée is an uncompromising composition of three wines carefully selected from single vineyards in the Bolzano basin, cooled by the winds from the Sarntal valley and selected vines that are up to 50 years old and, as with all of the cooperative's top products, are subject to strict yield regulation. At the same time, nothing is left to chance in the cellar: TAL 1908 matures for 12 months in small oak barrels (French barriques) and then for 15 months in concrete vats, whose fine pores allow air to enter, before finally acquiring its final finesse in the bottle. Adherence to these strict principles in the vineyard and in the cellar is a prerequisite for the richness and uniqueness of the flavour. The Cuvée TAL 1908 is not a matter of logic - it must be savoured with all the senses. 2,999 numbered bottles were bottled.

Deep garnet red colour. A symphony of ripe fruit on the nose, in particular aromas of raspberries, redcurrants and blackberries, with light notes of pepper and cloves, combined with hints of cocoa, graphite and liquorice in the depths. A highly complex harmony on the palate, consisting of soft finesse, mineral freshness and framed by wonderfully proportioned acidity. As the wine progresses, various layers open up to create a highly complex and long-lasting pleasure experience. SUPERIORE.DE

"On the nose, it immediately exudes the generosity of Lagrein with ripe black berry fruit, ripe blackberries, cloves, dark chocolate and coffee beans. Very concentrated in the mouth, almost opulent, powerful structure, again with notes of ripe blackberries, dark chocolate and sweet, velvety tannins. Very full and rich, but again has excellent taber much contrasting freshness. A perfect wine for the upcoming cold season to warm you up, certainly ideal with game, goulash and stews." Weinwisser

"Sparkling, impenetrable ruby colour with a violet core. Clear and memorable nose, showing notes of dark plum and cherry, spicy wild blueberry, plus fine nuances of mint and cardamom. Lots of juicy berry fruit on the palate, opens up with fine-meshed tannins, spans a wide arc, very nice drinking flow." Falstaff

"Strange combinations, but it works. Deep black violet-crimson colour. Concentrated blackberry and blueberry nose with creamy hints. Really gains depth with air. Juicy, cool dark fruit with velvety tannins. Very simple and easy to drink, but probably needs another year for the oak to fully integrate." Jancis Robinson

NA as in Nals, MA as in Margreid. A tribute to two outstanding sites where something special can be –, – and felt, and which have inspired cellarmaster Harald Schraffl to create something equally special from their grapes. A wine and essence that expresses the essence of the small plots in its purest form, whose typicity tells the South Tyrol of tomorrow, a timeless wine with recognition value in an international context. In 2016, this special marriage of – and –grapes finds its way into the bottle for the first time. NAMA is born – a cuvée of 85% Chardonnay, married with Pinot Bianco and Sauvignon.

Harald Schraffl describes the wine as follows: "The Chardonnay brings the power, the timelessness and the international length to the wine, the Pinot Blanc the regionality, the rootedness with our soil and our homeland, the Sauvignon the spice."

The vines for the Cuvée NAMA are between 30 and 40 years old. The grapes are harvested and selected by hand. After the gentle whole bunch pressing, the must is pre-clarified by natural, static sedimentation, fermentation and ageing in small oak barrels for 18 months on the lees. The grapes are then assembled and matured together on the lees for a further year in stainless steel tanks. The Cuvée NAMA is then bottled, where it matures for another year. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, rich straw yellow with light green components. Finely marked nose with notes of apricots and mirabelles, plus slightly resinous components, after spruce shoots. Plays up nicely on the palate, good pressure, salty, some green components on the final." Falstaff

"This wine is inspired by some of the great international expressions of Chardonnay. The Nals Margreid 2018 Alto Adige Bianco Nama is 90% Chardonnay with 7% Pinot Bianco and 3% Sauvignon Blanc just to give a little aromatic lift to the bouquet. Starting with the 2019 vintage, it becomes 100% Chardonnay. This gorgeous wine hits a perfect crosspoint of intensity, elegance and complexity. A light mineral dusting frames white peach, pear and quince. This medium–bodied white is plush and rich, but never heavy. Dolomitic notes give it lift and a convincing vertical push. Only 2,000 bottles were made plus specially numbered magnums." Wine Advocate

"A dense and layered white with cooked–apple, stone and light honey character, as well as pie crust and honeysuckle. It’s full–bodied and layered with a gorgeous, soft texture. Long and composed, with persistence and focus." James Suckling

Granato has been an exceptional Teroldego for years: its bouquet is impressive with its rich, balsamic aroma of sour cherries and redcurrants. Rich in extract and intense, powerful and extremely precise on the palate. A great wine that reflects the many years of consistency and expertise of this winemaker. SUPERIORE.DE

"A graceful, enticing red, with aromas of violet, graphite and cigar box spices wafting through flavors of pureed blackberry and mulberry, rooibos tea leaf, plum skin and pomegranate seed. Long and supple, with seamless integration of the fine, lightly chalky tannins and bright acidity with the expressive profile. The lasting finish echoes floral and spice details." Wine Spectator

"Dark as night, the 2021 Teroldego Granato smoulders from the glass with an array of crushed ash stones and earthy tones that give way to black raspberry, mentholated herbs and exotic spices. Silky smooth yet full of savoury tension, it sweeps across the palate with tart wild berries and acidic citrus driven by vibrant acidity. The 2021 leaves the senses in primary concentration with a tart blackberry core and edgy tannins that continue to rumble. This particularly intense and tight-knit Granato will pay dividends in the cellar." Vinous

This dry Gewürztraminer from the Pirchschrait single vineyard at Kolbenhof is a tribute to Konrad Oberhofer, who was the first to vinify the grapes from individual vineyards separately in the 1930s. Martin Foradori Hofstätter's grandfather was a pioneer of vineyard thinking. His goal was to make the special character of each site tangible in the wine.

After ten years of maturation on the fine yeast in Liters barrels, the Gewürztraminer develops a dense texture without losing freshness. The fine yeast also gives it a charming aroma of toasted bread, medlars, blossom honey and dried fruits. In contrast, the already low fruit sweetness recedes discreetly during the years of ageing, while the minerality gains in expression. In the glass, the top-quality Pirchschrait impresses with a subtle interplay of flavours. SUPERIORE.DE

Pònkler is the house's top wine and at the same time the essence of Franz Haas' decades of experience with the undemanding Pinot Nero grape. The vines, planted in 2007, grow on soils of weathered porphyry in a single vineyard at an altitude of 750 metres. The selection of French clones, which have proven to be particularly suitable for high altitudes, the high density of vines and the low yields guarantee a very high quality of grapes.

The stronger sunshine in the high altitudes of South Tyrol gives the wine its typical ripe fruit flavours. On the nose, it is concentrated with great depth and reveals ripe red and black berries, as well as star anise and leather. In the mouth, it builds up the precise primary fruit in layers and is reminiscent of medicinal herbs and cinchona bark. With every sip, it shows its class, great substance and precise tannin structure. And in the infinitely long finish it is there again, this boundless depth and complexity. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich ruby colour with a fine garnet rim. Concentrated and appealing nose, opens with notes of ripe plums, wild raspberries and spicy chestnut honey. Full-bodied and firm in the attack and on the palate, lots of red berry fruit, grippy tannins, firm pressure on the final, still somewhat characterised by the wood in the aftertaste, which slows down the drinking flow." Falstaff

"Very pure Pinot aromas of sliced strawberries and lemon shrub as well as flowers such as lilac. Subtle sandalwood. Medium to full body with very fine tannins and a bright and fresh finish. Straightforward and fine. A seductive Alpine Pinot from a single vineyard." James Suckling

Appius is the winery's flagship wine. The elegant, very aromatic cuvée from the white varieties Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris matures for one year in wood and three years on the fine lees in stainless steel. The nose has a complex aroma of tropical fruit and floral notes, flint, white chocolate and mint. Powerful, expansive and long on the palate. A marvellous white wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, rich straw yellow colour, delicate green notes. Intense and inviting nose, initially of cold smoke and beeswax, followed by pineapple and ripe pineapple, some basil in the background. Shows great radiance in the attack, lots of juicy fruit, unfolds with full pressure, beautiful interplay between yellow fruit and a slight bitter component in the final." Falstaff

"Aromas of peach tea, soap, yellow grapefruit and some tomato leaf follow through to a medium body and weighty palate. Very fruity and crisp, a bit tight and dry, with a bitter finish that balances a bold style. Give it time." James Suckling

"A panorama of flavours: melon, fruit and ripe citrus fruits with a hint of mint and dried herbs to round it off. Deliciously creamy, smooth and complex." Decanter

NA for Nals, MA for Margreid. A tribute to two outstanding sites where something special can be felt, seen and felt, and which have inspired cellarmaster Harald Schraffl to create something equally special from their grapes. A wine and essence that expresses the essence of the small parcels in its purest form, whose typicity tells the South Tyrol of tomorrow, a timeless wine with recognition value in an international context.

The Chardonnay vines for NAMA are between 30 and 40 years old. The grapes are harvested and selected by hand. After the gentle whole bunch pressing, the must is pre-clarified by natural, static sedimentation, fermentation and ageing in small oak barrels for 18 months on the lees. This is followed by ageing on the lees for a further year in stainless steel tanks. This is followed by a further year of bottle ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sweet white flowers, opal apples and notes of candied lime make up the bouquet of the 2019 Chardonnay Nama, flooding the palate with opulent textures and rich white stone fruit balanced by a vibrant acidic core and gentle acidic citrus notes. The Chardonnay is beautifully balanced, leaving a hint of concentration that gives it a tactile feel, while finishing with great length and finesse." Vinous

"Bright straw yellow with strong green nuances. Opens with notes of mint, ripe pineapple, fine smoky components, some brown butter. Firm and sturdy on the palate, well-integrated acidity, firm pressure on the final, roasted hazelnuts in the aftertaste." Falstaff

"The Nals Margreid 2019 Alto Adige Bianco Nama is a Chardonnay, although previous vintages have included small amounts of Pinot Bianco and Sauvignon Blanc. From this vintage onwards, the wine is only identified as Chardonnay on the front label. Characterised by a cool mountain climate, this lovely wine shows many of the elegant fruit and mineral accents we have seen in past editions of Nama. It also offers light toasty and oaky notes that give the wine a lovely texture, a soft creaminess and excellent length. It is a beauty." Wine Advocate

"The intensity and subtlety of this young white wine is impressive. It offers aromas of spicy pears, granite and flint, as well as alpine flowers and hints of cream and vanilla. Also mango. Full-bodied yet very linear, with wonderful length and intensity. It lingers on the palate for minutes. It has the class of a top Burgundy and yet is a true South Tyrolean. 100% Chardonnay this year. 2,000 bottles." James Suckling