The Alto Adige Wine Review

This post is made to provide the basics of the Alto Adige wine region. Alto Adige/Südtirol is in the far north-central part of Italy. The area is also referred to as Südtirol, or South Tyrol, which is the result of the German-speaking tradition of parts of the region.  The region overall is not large in terms of wine production, with approximately 13,000 acres of vineyards spread across 7 distinct growing sub-regions. The sub-regions of the region include: Colli di Bolzano, Lago di Coldaro, Meranese, Santa Maddalena, Terlano, Val Venosta, and Valle Isarco. Around 60% of the vineyards are dedicated to white wine varietals, with the remaining 40% to red wine varietals.  The primary white grape varietals planted include: Pinot Grigio, Gewürztraminer, Chardonnay, and Pinot Blanc. Pinot Grigio is the most widely planted grape varietal in the region, covering approximately 12% of vineyard space. The primary red grape varietals planted include: Pinot Noir,  Lagrein, and Sch...

Welcome to the Alto Adige Wine Review! I am a wine writer and reviewer who will use this site to discuss the wine region of Alto Adige (also called Südtirol). Alto Adige/Südtirol is located in Northern Italy, and provides a unique mix of Italian and Germanic viticultural and gastronomic cultures.  Alto Adige has over 98% of its winegrowing areas are protected under the denominazione di origine controllata (D.O.C.) regulations. The wine region is located within the southern Alps and Dolomites, growing grape varietals highlighted by Gewürztraminer, Lagrein, Müller-Thurgau, Riesling, Sylvaner, Gewürztraminer, and Vernatsch. I am always happy to hear thoughts and comments from the community, as I hope to evoke the essence and shared joy of this community! Cheers, Saluti, and Prost!