Italiano
Schiava or Vernatsch it is always good
Whether you call it by its Italian name, Schiava, or by its South Tyrolean name, Vernatsch, this native grape gives a fragrant wine that is very pleasant in drinking, typical of South Tyrol.
We have already spoken several times about the Schiava grape variety or Vernatsch, as it is called by the German-speaking South Tyroleans. The most common varieties belonging to this group are Schiava Grossa (Großvernatsch), Schiava Gentile (Roter Vernatsch) and Schiava Grigia (Grauvernatsch). Without wishing to go into the differences between the latter and the former two, we can say that this family of native reds until not so many years ago formed the basis for the most widespread wine in South Tyrol, where, after all, it has been produced since the 16th century, and its cultivation was therefore extremely extensive. Currently it makes up only 10.2 percent of the total area under vine in South Tyrol. In recent years, in fact, the area under cultivation has decreased, but in return the quality of bottled Schiava has increased considerably, and today this wine is experiencing an unexpected rediscovery.
The ideal terroir for growing the vine can be found right in the province of Bolzano, without going into too high altitudes. Gentle hills characterized by soils of alluvial and gravelly character and very favorable environmental conditions, with a mild climate free of too high temperature swings.
Generally Schiava is a light wine with moderate tannins, notes of violets and fresh berries, and, served at low temperatures, proves extremely versatile, to the point that it can also accompany some fish dishes, provided they are particularly fatty and flavorful. In general it goes well with South Tyrolean dishes.
Of course, we are talking about Schiava, but there are differences depending on the various production areas. They say at the Alto Adige Wine Consortium, "Schiava changes on the palate depending on the area: full when it comes from Santa Maddalena, soft when it comes from Lake Kaltern, aromatic if it is grown in the hills of the Merano area."
We chose Markus Prackwieser's Schiava Mediaevum at Gump Hof and Schiava Grigia from Kurtatsch Winery.
Gump Hof - Markus Prackwieser
Alto Adige Schiava Mediaevum 2021
94/100 - € 12,00
100% Schiava. Stainless steel and tonneaux (30%) for 8 months. A sort of model for its cathedory. Bright ruby red color. Fresh, fruity, delicate tannins, attractive drinkability. Dangerously pleasant finish.
Cantina Kurtatsch
Alto Adige Schiava Grigia 2021
93/100 - € 10,00
100% Schiava grigia. Matures in barrels for 8 months. Bright ruby red color. Typical smoky aromas and notes of wildberries. Great personality in the mouth and delicate at the same time. Juicy and lively drinkability.
