Alto Adige: A World Unto Itself

Alto Adige is literally a world unto itself. Home to a number of indigenous white and red varieties seldom seen elsewhere in Italy, Alto Adige is one of the most unique and compelling regions in the world. Also known as Südtirol (South Tyrol), Alto Adige remains very much rooted in its Austrian origins, something that is evident in the architecture, cuisine and local dialects. Alto Adige benefits from a number of tax incentives, which makes it one of the wealthiest regions in Europe. Visitors will see some of the most impeccably clean cities in all of Italy.

Manni Nössing’s vineyards in the Valle Isarco

Alto Adige’s steep hillside vineyards are breathtaking. The wines are every bit as compelling. One of the distinguishing characteristics here is that the average vineyard holding per family is the smallest in Italy. This phenomenon has given rise to numerous cooperatives, the best of which offer superb quality and value. Perhaps the most famous is Terlano. Readers who want to learn more about Terlano might enjoy this video interview with Sales/Marketing Director, Klaus Gasser. Sadly, many of the top small estates sell all or most of their production to visitors from nearby Austria and the surrounding countries, which makes the wines hard to find. The best examples, though, are very much worth the effort of seeking out.