Trentino–Alto Adige / Südtirol

1. Overview

Trentino–Alto Adige is Italy’s northernmost wine region.
It produces crisp, aromatic whites, elegant light reds, Alpine Pinot Noir, and high-quality sparkling wine (Trento DOC).
The region is split into two areas: Trentino (Italian-speaking) and Alto Adige/Südtirol (largely German-speaking).

2. Climate & Terroir

• Strong Alpine influence → cool nights, warm days, high acidity.
• Föhn winds help keep grapes healthy.
• Soils vary: porphyry (volcanic), limestone, morainic deposits, and alluvial plains.
• Altitude (250–900+ m) is key to freshness and aromatic intensity.

3. Main Grapes

Whites

• Pinot Grigio: clean, fresh, citrusy.
• Sauvignon Blanc: herbal, crisp, mineral.
• Gewürztraminer: floral, spicy, rich (Tramin is famous).
• Kerner, Riesling, Müller-Thurgau: very aromatic mountain whites.
• Chardonnay: essential for Trento DOC sparkling wines.
• Nosiola: local white used for dry wines and Vino Santo.

Reds

• Schiava (Vernatsch): pale, soft, fruity, very drinkable.
• Lagrein: dark, fuller-bodied, violet and plum flavours.
• Pinot Noir: elegant, structured Alpine style.
• Teroldego: dark, juicy, mineral red from Piana Rotaliana.

4. Key Regions

Alto Adige / Südtirol

• Known for precise whites and high-quality Pinot Noir.
• Subzones include St. Magdalener, Kalterersee, Valle Isarco, and Oltradige/Bassa Atesina.

Trentino

• Produces Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Müller-Thurgau, and reds.
• Home of Teroldego Rotaliano DOC.
• Trento DOC: top traditional-method sparkling wines.

Valle Isarco

• High-altitude zone producing some of Italy’s best aromatic whites.

Cembra Valley

• Known for mountain Müller-Thurgau and Riesling.

5. Why the Region Matters

• Some of Italy’s finest aromatic whites grow here.
• Pinot Noir quality has increased dramatically (especially Mazon/Glen).
• Trento DOC rivals other major sparkling-wine regions.
• Native grapes (Schiava, Lagrein, Teroldego, Nosiola) add distinctive identity.

6. Summary

Trentino–Alto Adige combines Alpine freshness, high-altitude vineyards, and diverse soils to create bright, aromatic whites, elegant reds, and excellent sparkling wines. Its cultural mix and mountain influence produce some of Italy’s most distinctive wine styles.