Grauvernatsch Schiava Grigia Sudtirol Alto Adige DOC

Vineyard and terroir

The grapes come from the producer's vineyards in Alto Adige, at 300–450 metres above sea level. The slopes face southeast, and the soils are sandy loam containing dolomite, minerals and oxides. The Schiava Grigia clone is demanding and shows its full potential on Alto Adige's broad, sunny hillsides.

Vinification

The grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness. At the winery they are sorted, pressed and fermented in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature. The wine then goes through malolactic fermentation.

Ageing

After malolactic fermentation the wine is aged in large oak casks.

Tasting profile

Remarkably elegant and fresh. It is best enjoyed young, within 1–2 years of bottling.

Vintage notes

2021 was a challenging year in Trentino-Alto Adige. The winter was mostly sunny but very cold. In spring temperatures rose only occasionally and briefly, which slowed the vines' development. A warm, sunny start to summer made up for the delay in the growing cycle. July and August were unsettled, and the harvest began relatively late. A rainy September tested the growers, but the results were impressive. The 2021 was named "Schiava of the Year" at the "Vernatsch Cup".

Label / history

"Vernatsch", the German name for Schiava, comes from the Latin "vernaculus", meaning "local", and reflects the grape's long history in Alto Adige. The oldest written records already described Schiava Grigia as the noblest of the Schiava varieties.