Trentino-Alto Adige
Principal Varietals:
This far north region borders Austria and Switzerland and is composed of two distinct provinces. The province of Trentino makes up the southern portion surrounding the city of Trento, while the northern Alto Adige surrounds the city of Bolzano. Historically Alto Adige was Austrian, hence the German name for the region, Südtirol (meaning South Tyrol). Trentino is mostly Italian in tradition, food, and speech. Polenta, pasta, and gnocchi are made heartily with butter, cream, and wild mushrooms in this mountainous region. Alto Adige is distinctly influenced by its connection to Austria. Cabbage, potatoes, dumplings, and kraut prevail, and the population of German speaking residents is so great that it is officially bilingual.
The wines are decidedly of Austrian and German influence as well, with Müller Thurgau, Gewürztraminer, Sylvaner, and Veltliner. The high altitude Alpine climate of Trentino-Alto Adige is a spectacular area for white wine. The landscape is nearly covered by the Alps, putting the focus on quality not quantity. The white wines are aromatic and crisp. It has been said that the perfect home for Müller Thurgau may be Trentino-Alto Adige. Grown here, the grape produces wine with a wonderful bouquet and freshness. They are not nearly as oily or thick as the Müller Thurgau we are used to finding from Germany, Austria, and Hungary.
Put yourself in the Trentino hills with Seiterre Müller Thurgau paired with gnocchi in a fresh green herb sauce.
