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The best red wines of Trentino-Alto Adige
The viticulture of Alto Adige is multifaceted. Despite the small size of this region, of only 5400 hectares, 20 different varieties are grown here thanks to its location and favourable climate. The region has a single DOC designation divided into seven subregions: Alto Adige Merano (in and around the area of the same name), Alto Adige Val Venosta (west of Merano and south of the River Adige), Alto Adige Valle Isacro (between Fiè allo Scillar and Varna), Alto Adige Bolzano (in and around Bolzano), Alto Adige Oltradige (as far as Terlano to the west of the River Adige) and Alto Adige Bassa Atesina (corresponding to the regional wine trail). In this region, there are many native grape varieties and several other red grape varieties of international origin. Some of the best wines of Trentino-Alto Adige include Pinot Nero (Pinot Noir), Lagrein, Schiava, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Pinot Nero (Pinot Noir), or Südtiroler Blauburgunder as it is known in the region, is perhaps one of the best mountain expressions for this red grape variety. Among the most popular crus, we should highlight Mazzon, near to Egna, but there are interesting expressions almost everywhere in the region, particularly in Val Venosta. Bright ruby red in colour, this wine is characterised by aromas of blackberries, strawberries and blueberries when young, and then with age tends towards balsamic notes and spice, especially if it has been aged in small wood, such as barriques. It is intense on the palate, with good freshness and crisp tannins if very young, characteristics which tend to become refined over time.
Alto Adige major red wine designations
Lagrein is a native Alto Adige variety, which can be vinified in red with the word “Dunkel” stated on the label, or in rosé known as “Lagrein Kretzer”. The areas best-suited to cultivating Lagrein include the area of Bolzano, in the district of Gries, the area of Piani-Rencio, as well as Ora. This is a easily recognisable wine due to its unmistakable tasting profile: ruby red, sweet spices and berries on the nose, firmly structured on the palate with good tannic texture, savoury notes and exuberant length. Schiava, another native Alto Adige variety, has various clones including Schiava Gentile, Schiava Grigia and Schiava Grossa. Disregarded for years, Schiava is making a comeback through its transverse character which stands out in its ability to be paired with the whole meal. With its pale ruby red colour, it has a delicate aroma which is reminiscent of red flowers and bitter almond, scents that are also consistent on the palate. The Cabernet Sauvignon made in Alto Adige is a mountain wine, which maintains some typical aromas of the variety, combining blackberries, blueberries and blackcurrants, expressed with power and great freshness on the palate. Probably the most firmly structured red of the wines of Alto Adige, is an excellent version of a Merlot, Bordeaux variety, which has settled very well, and which gives complex and opulent wines, marked by aromas of red berry jam and spices, a broad palate, and persuasive tannins, if aged in wood.
Pairings to try
Both the white and red wines of Trentino-Alto Adige have a long tradition, as this region is one of the oldest producers of this drink. The area in question is in fact dotted with hillside vineyards which make it unique. Alto Adige’s red wines lend themselves to wonderful regional pairings, and much more besides. Thanks to its accentuated acidity, Lagrein goes perfectly with grilled meats, appetisers of gutsy cured meats and smoked food, and also with pasta with ragù or lasagne. Also, it lends itself to pairings with traditional Austrian dishes, such as wiener schnitzel, especially if accompanied by blueberry jam, which reflects the hints of red berry fruit in this wine. Lagrein Riserva, on the other hand, calls for a pairing with premium meats and game, such as red deer or roe deer venison, and also typical dishes such as goulash, or speck canederli. Schiava wines are suited for pairing with typical Tyrolean dishes such as canederli in broth, vegetable soups and mushroom-based dishes. They are also great with appetisers and cold cuts, especially speck and typical cold cuts from the area, but also with fish soup, maybe served a few degrees cooler.
More harmonious flavours and aromas
Pinot Nero (Pinot Noir) goes well with a wide variety of dishes and enhances the taste of them. For example, it is well suited to game but also roasted white meats and pasta and rice dishes, including spätzle noodles and pumpkin ravioli. The main thing to bear in mind is not to pair it with very extravagant, spicy or hot dishes. Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine which goes well with strong dishes such as mature cheeses and aromatic meats. Its ideal partner is game, especially wild boar, roe deer venison and pheasant which enhance the aroma of berries, ginger and blueberry. This wine is also particularly suited to accompanying vegetables, veloutés, vegetable soups and salads. The best pairing is with all variations of asparagus cooked with eggs, in lasagne or in a risotto. Another essential pairing to try is with pesto, and also with fresh cheeses, such as ricotta, mozzarella and goats cheese. Merlot on the other hand is a soft wine that is pleasant on the palate, and it therefore goes very well with pasta and rice dishes with meat sauces or main courses based on roasted white or red meat. Some also enjoy it with fish dishes, especially salmon. In short, you just have to try it!