We all have a journey, made in a particular stage of our life, that we remember forever. Ten years ago I would have thought visiting somewhere like Burgundy or Champagne would be my favourite ever trip. I never thought there’d be a day when it would be South Tyrol (also known as Alto Adige), but the region’s wine stays with you long after you’ve left.
A land illuminated with mountains, lakes, rivers and green valleys that run from 200 metres above sea level up to over 3,000, South Tyrol is home to vineyards, beautiful orchards, huge happy cattle and a people who have made the most of the land, with its ancient soul and terroir.
South Tyrol is a bit of Austria, a bit of Germany and a bit of Italy all put together, but at the same time it is totally unique; a pure and unpolluted world where typical alpine elegance is reflected in every single aspect of everyday life. Wines made in the Dolomites reflect the soul of the land – they are full-bodied and mineral with a hint of freshness and intense aroma. Some call South Tyrol the Italian Alsace, but that does no justice to the farmers who started making high quality wine in this area 3,000 years ago.
The moment I got off the train at Bolzano's railway station, the majesty of the mountain peaks and the light that continuously chases the shadow of the valleys kept me company until I reached my hotel room. On my journey I was surprised by the quality of the many specialised wine bars scattered around the city, and it became obvious that South Tyrol is a region very focused on wine. It is the Italian territory with the highest number of ‘Tre Bicchieri’ accolades from the publication Gambero Rosso (the most famous Italian wine award) in relation to the size of the vineyards.
