Red Wines from Alto Adige

If statistics are to be believed, red wine is, for better or for worse, more popular than its brethren white and rosé wines. While these other types have risen in popularity over the past two decades, red wines are still the most consumed globally.

Naturally, to contribute to this consumer need, Alto Adige produces numerous beautiful red wines! Alto Adige vineyards are primarily planted with white wine varietals, but 35 percent of the region is made up of red wine varietals, making it a meaningful segment of winemaking in the region.

The region has two autochthonous (meaning they originated in the region) red grape varietals, Vernatsch and Lagrein.

Vernatsch is also called Schiava, as well as Trollinger in Germany. Vernatsch typically has a light body and moderate tannins. Wines are typically floral, with notes of ripe cherry and almond. They are commonly drank young, without significant aging.  

Lagrein typically producers bigger and bolder wines than Vernatsch, with coarser tannins and fuller body. Lagrein retains much of the florality, however, with notes of violet, cherry, and stewed plum. Wines made from Lagrein are also more commonly aged in wooden barrels, and can be kept in bottle for longer periods of time. 

These two varietals make up approximately 20 percent of vineyards in Alto Adige.

Aside from these two important autochthonous grapes, other red varietals are also planted in the Alto Adige region. 

Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon also planted to a meaningful extent in Alto Adige. 

Pinot Noir, known for its light color and funky, earthy tones reminiscent of forest floor and funghi, is actually the most widely planted single red wine varietal in Alto Adige, covering approximately 10 percent of all vineyard area in the region at 580 hectares (1,433 acres). The areas of Mazon, Gleno, and Pinzano are the best known producers of Pinot Noir.

Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, famous for their origin in the Burgundy region of France, cover approximately 3 percent each, respectively, in Alto Adige with just under 200 hectares (around 450 acres) of vineyards. 

A small amount of land is also dedicated to the cultivation of Red Muscat. This varietal was introduced to the Alto Adige region over 125 years ago and today covers only around 7 hectares (17 acres) of vineyards in the region. While these grapes are naturally sweet, they produce a rich, floral red wine in Alto Adige and are a must-try if you find a bottle!