Even for us, the diversity of Alto Adige is a constant source of wonder. The landscape blends palm trees and cypresses with snow-capped mountains, the culinary scene is a mix of Tyrolean and Italian dishes, and greetings range from “hallo” to “ciao” to “bun dì”. Alto Adige is a colourful mix of geological, microclimatic and cultural diversity.
Alto Adige lies in the centre of the Alps – a special location that influences the vegetation and the microclimate. The high northern mountains shield the area from cold winds, while to the south, the terrain opens up, allowing mild Mediterranean air currents to flow in. This convergence of Alpine and Mediterranean climates creates a fascinating environment, particularly for viticulture. The vineyards of Alto Adige lie between 200m (656ft) and 1,000m (3,280ft) above sea level, and the microclimate is correspondingly varied. Summers can be intensely hot, with Bolzano often recording Italy’s highest temperatures, while higher areas retain a cooler Alpine climate.
The Alps also present a unique geological “playground”. The area around Bolzano features volcanic porphyry, whereas weathered primary rock soils with quartz, slate and mica can be found in the Isarco and Venosta Valleys, and limestone and dolomite dominate southern Alto Adige. In total, the terrain features over 150 different types of rock. The composition of the soil often differs greatly within a radius of just a few metres. Although this can make it difficult to choose the right grape variety, it also offers incredibly exciting opportunities in viticulture.
Until 1918, Alto Adige was part of Austria, but after World War I, it became a region of Italy. This historical shift, along with the interplay of northern and southern influences, has fostered a unique blend of cultures, traditions and languages. However, even long before the borders were redrawn, Alto Adige’s strategic location made it a cultural crossroads. Our Casòn Hirschprunn Estate exemplifies this cultural fusion, blending Italian Renaissance and southern German Baroque styles. With parts of the building dating back to the early Middle Ages, the palazzo has been continually expanded and reshaped, reflecting the cultural zeitgeist of each era. This cultural diversity is not only evident in architecture and art but also in the region’s linguistic landscape. German, Italian and Ladin are the recognised official languages. The local cuisine and wine culture also bear the marks of this rich cultural intermingling. When asked if we identify more with the North or the South, the answer is neither strictly one nor the other, but rather a blend of both. This is clear in the region’s name: “Südtirol” in German, indicating its position in the southern part of Tyrol, and “Alto Adige” in Italian, signifying its location above the Adige River. Alto Adige is thus neither exclusively north nor south but embodies elements of both.
The interaction between different soils, weather conditions and cultures is what makes Alto Adige so special and its viticulture so multifaceted. Around 30 different grape varieties are cultivated here, 36% of which are red wines and 64% white wines. Today, Alto Adige is the leading white wine region in Italy, a status that has come about relatively recently. It was not until the early 2000s that the area began to gain recognition as a predominantly white wine region. Historically, the focus was on native red varieties such as Schiava and Lagrein.
Our wines are a reflection of the Alpine region – they are fresh, lively and authentic. Alto Adige’s diversity offers incredible potential. To fully embrace this region’s varied geology, microclimates and cultural influences, we collaborate with approximately 60 vintner partners across Alto Adige.