Guide: Trentino-Alto Adige
Image: Sunrise at Alpe di Siusi
Alpine Wines from the Dolomites
Trentino-Alto Adige is one of Italy’s smallest but most enchanting wine regions. Nestled in the stunning Dolomite mountain range, a UNESCO World Heritage site, this place is home to over a million people, with the population evenly split between its two provinces, Trento in the south and Bolzano in the north. Two-thirds of the region speaks Italian, while one-third speaks German.
This breathtaking region, located in the northernmost part of Italy, bordering Switzerland and Austria, is known for its exceptional wine production, which benefits from a unique combination of factors: an alpine climate, diverse soils, Mediterranean microclimates, and rich heritage.
Steeped in History
Trentino-Alto Adige has a rich winemaking history that dates back to Roman times, with further influence from medieval monasteries. The region’s unique blend of Italian and Germanic heritage has shaped its wine culture, combining ancient traditions with modern techniques to produce exceptional wines.
High Altitude, Alpine Wines
The mountainous terrain of Trentino-Alto Adige creates a range of microclimates, from warm valleys to cool high-altitude vineyards, each offering ideal conditions for different grape varieties. Around 85% of the region’s vineyards are planted on steep mountain slopes, requiring intricate manual work to terrace the land and optimize sun exposure. This high elevation enhances the acidity and freshness of the wines while preserving vibrant fruit flavours. The combination of alpine coolness and Mediterranean warmth results in crisp and complex wines, reflecting the unique character of the region’s diverse landscapes.
Image: Girlan's vineyards in South Tyrol
White Wines: Freshness and Complexity
Trentino-Alto Adige’s white wines are Italy's gold standard, known for their exceptional crispness, freshness, and mineral-rich acidity. Crafted with low yields and expert winemaking, these wines consistently earn top scores. Among the region's most celebrated offerings are the white Pinots, which account for over 20% of production and are prized for their aromatic complexity and crisp freshness. Alongside them, indigenous varieties like Gewürztraminer, Sauvignon Blanc, Kerner, Müller-Thurgau, Sylvaner, and Nosiola thrive in the region’s unique climate and soils.
If you explore Cavinona’s white wines from this region, you’ll encounter three outstanding producers: Abbazia di Novacella from Valle Isarco, Girlan from Oltradige, and Marco Donati from Piana Rotaliana. Each offers distinct styles, shaped by the terroir of their respective areas.
Valle Isarco, located in the northern part, is characterized by its cooler climate and higher altitudes, producing wines with vibrant acidity and mineral freshness. Abbazia di Novacella, a historic winery, excels in crafting crisp, elegant whites like Kerner, Sauvignon Blanc, and Grüner Veltliner, showcasing delicate floral aromas and a refreshing, clean finish. Additionally, Müller-Thurgau, another standout white, thrives in this cool climate, offering a bright, fresh profile with hints of green apple, citrus, and delicate floral notes. Its crisp acidity and light, approachable character make it an excellent example of the region’s ability to produce elegant yet accessible white wines.
Image: The harvest at Girlan
In contrast, Oltradige, located in the southern part, enjoys a warmer climate, resulting in richer, more fruit-forward wines. Girlan, a renowned winery in the area, produces fuller-bodied, rounder wines with bold fruit flavours. Their Gewürztraminer is a perfect example, intensely aromatic with hints of spice and tropical fruit, offering a fuller, more opulent expression compared to the fresher versions from the north. Pinot Bianco from this warmer climate takes on a riper, fruitier profile, with a smooth texture and a richer mouthfeel.
In Trentino, Marco Donati also crafts exceptional white wines. His Nosiola, another indigenous grape of the region, is a standout for its light, elegant profile, with flavours of green apple and subtle almond, making it a perfect match for the region’s food culture.
In summary, if you prefer fresh, mineral-driven whites, Abbazia di Novacella is the ideal choice. For more aromatic, fruit-forward wines, Girlan provides a richer, fuller experience. If you're looking for wines that combine elegance with a touch of the region's warmth, Marco Donati offers a unique expression with his Nosiola, which highlights the balance of freshness and richness that Trentino’s climate allows.
Image: The harvest at Abbazia di Novacella
Red Wines: Elegance and Boldness
The red wines offer a perfect reflection of their unique terroirs, showcasing a balance of complexity, richness, and elegance. Alto Adige in the northern part of the region, with its cooler, alpine climate, and Trentino in the South, with its warmer temperatures, create wines that cater to different palates while maintaining exceptional quality.
Girlan is celebrated for its red wines that balance power with finesse. The warmer climate here allows the grapes, particularly Lagrein and Pinot Noir, to fully ripen, resulting in wines with deep colour, smooth textures, and bold fruit flavours. Lagrein at Girlan offers rich dark fruit notes, hints of spice, and a velvety mouthfeel. Their Pinot Noir is also a standout, influenced by the cool nights of the region, producing an elegant wine with bright red fruit and subtle earthy undertones. Additionally, Schiava, another indigenous variety, produces a lighter, fruit-forward red, with delicate cherry and berry flavours, making it a popular choice for those who prefer an easy-drinking wine.
On the other hand, Abbazia di Novacella, with its higher altitudes and cooler climate, crafts refined reds with more freshness and elegance. Their Pinot Noir has a delicate structure, with bright red berry flavours and earthy nuances. It showcases a unique balance of fruit and acidity, offering a refined finish that reflects the cooler growing conditions of the region.
Image: Tasting in the vineyard at Marco Donati
In contrast, Marco Donati is known for producing full-bodied reds that reflect the warmer climate of the area. His Teroldego wines are rich and expressive, with dark fruit flavours, soft tannins, and a round, smooth texture. It stands out for its deep colour, intense aromas of plum, cherry, and spice, and its ability to offer a bold yet approachable profile.
The differences between these areas are clear: Alto Adige, with its cooler climate, produces reds that are more structured, elegant and fresh, while Trentino’s warmer temperatures yield wines that are rounder, fuller, and fruit-forward. Whether you prefer the crisp freshness and finesse of Abbazia di Novacella or the bold, expressive wines of Girlan and Marco Donati, this region offers exceptional red wines that showcase the diversity and richness of northern Italy.
Fun & Unique Facts about the region
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The towering mountains protect the vineyards from harsh winds, providing sunlight by day and cool temperatures by night, ensuring gradual ripening and complex flavours.
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The region’s soil, shaped by glacial activity, is a mix of glacial moraine, clay, sand, and rocks, ideal for growing both indigenous and international grape varieties.
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Many winemakers in Trentino-Alto Adige embrace sustainable, eco-friendly practices, respecting the unique mountain ecosystem.
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98% of the region's wine production is DOC, the highest percentage in Italy.
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70% of the production in Trentino-Alto Adige comes from cooperative wine cellars.
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62% of the population speaks Italian as their mother tongue, while 30% speak South Tyrolean German.
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Trentino-Alto Adige is one of Europe’s leading apple producers, particularly known for the Golden Delicious variety, which thrives in the sunny, fertile valleys.
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This region boasts the highest concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants in Italy.
Every Season is Worth a Visit
The Dolomite’s mountains offer emotions in every season and can be experienced in many different ways. In spring, it's the perfect time for cycling tours and to taste fresh local asparagus served with Bolzano sauce and ham. Sauvignon Blanc is the classic wine to accompany asparagus in Alto Adige.
Image: Hiking in the Dolomites
Summer offers the opportunity to go hiking around lakes, walking at high altitudes, cycling tours, swimming, canoeing, and canyoning. Alternatively, you can simply visit one of the many beautiful mountain huts and enjoy typical local food such as cured meat and local cheeses, polenta with stew, "tortei de patate" (potato fritters), apple strudel and buckwheat cake.
In the Fall, the apple and grape harvests take place, and the hard work of the year bears fruit. From early October to late November, farmhouse taverns open their doors. You can enjoy traditional dishes like homemade Schlutzkrapfen ravioli, Knödel dumplings (both savoury and sweet), cured meats, homemade sausages with Sauerkraut, Krapfen doughnuts, and roasted chestnuts. All are served in a warm, enchanting atmosphere with grape must and young wine.
Images: Four course Törggele dinner in the fall
In winter, you can enjoy winter sports such as snow walks, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, mountaineering, tobogganing with children, or simply relaxing in one of the many spas the region offers, which are among the best in the world.
Throughout the year, you'll also be treated to delicious delicacies at the many Michelin-starred restaurants.
Must-see places
Cities:
- Trento: The capital of Trentino, a charming Roman city, known for its historic sites like the Buonconsiglio Castle, the Piazza Duomo, and the MUSE Museum (Museum of Science).
- Bolzano: The capital of South Tyrol, home to the famous Ötzi the Iceman at the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, and the beautiful Piazza Walther.
Mountains:
- The Dolomites: A UNESCO World Heritage site that offers stunning peaks like Tre Cime di Lavaredo and Marmolada, perfect for hiking and photography.
- The Adamello Range: A massive mountain range, home to Adamello Glacier, offering hiking, climbing, and spectacular views.
Ski Slopes:
- Madonna di Campiglio: One of Italy's most famous ski resorts, with a wide range of slopes, perfect for winter sports and beautiful alpine views.
- Val Gardena: Known worldwide for its well-maintained slopes and as part of the Sella Ronda, a ski circuit that connects several mountain valleys.
Plateaus:
- Alpe di Siusi: Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow, offering stunning views of the Dolomites and excellent opportunities for hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing, also with kids.
- Resciesa Plateau: Located near Ortisei, it offers beautiful panoramas of the Dolomites and is perfect for hiking or a peaceful nature retreat.
Lakes:
- Lago di Garda: The largest lake in Italy, offering stunning views, watersports, and charming towns.
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Lago di Braies: Often considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites, with crystal-clear waters and breathtaking surroundings, perfect for boating and photography.
Closest Airports:
Bolzano, Verona, Innsbruck, and Venice
Image: Alpe di Suisi in the fall
A personal note
I hope this glimpse into my region has sparked your interest. I feel a deep connection to my land and mountains, which are always the first thing I miss when I’m away. There’s so much more I’d love to share, but I’ll save that for another time. In the meantime, I invite you to visit and experience all that this incredible region has to offer—starting with its amazing wine!
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