Top Riservas of South Tyrol

1908 is the year in which the Gries winery was founded. The history of the winery is closely linked to three rivers, but it is the Talvera that has shaped it the most. Bolzano is not called the city of Talvera for nothing. The old floodplains have given the winegrowers very special soils. These alluvial soils on porphyry provide the ideal basis for Lagrein in particular, but also for Cabernet and Merlot. With its good water permeability and mineral deposits, Bolzano's volcanic porphyry has always been one of the keys to wines full of character.

The idea behind this red wine cuvée is an uncompromising composition of three wines carefully selected from single vineyards in the Bolzano basin, cooled by the winds from the Sarntal valley and selected vines that are up to 50 years old and, as with all of the cooperative's top products, are subject to strict yield regulation. At the same time, nothing is left to chance in the cellar: TAL 1908 matures for 12 months in small oak barrels (French barriques) and then for 15 months in concrete vats, whose fine pores allow air to enter, before finally acquiring its final finesse in the bottle. Adherence to these strict principles in the vineyard and in the cellar is a prerequisite for the richness and uniqueness of the flavour. The Cuvée TAL 1908 is not a matter of logic - it must be savoured with all the senses. 2,999 numbered bottles were bottled.

Deep garnet red colour. A symphony of ripe fruit on the nose, in particular aromas of raspberries, redcurrants and blackberries, with light notes of pepper and cloves, combined with hints of cocoa, graphite and liquorice in the depths. A highly complex harmony on the palate, consisting of soft finesse, mineral freshness and framed by wonderfully proportioned acidity. As the wine progresses, various layers open up to create a highly complex and long-lasting pleasure experience. SUPERIORE.DE

"On the nose, it immediately exudes the generosity of Lagrein with ripe black berry fruit, ripe blackberries, cloves, dark chocolate and coffee beans. Very concentrated in the mouth, almost opulent, powerful structure, again with notes of ripe blackberries, dark chocolate and sweet, velvety tannins. Very full and rich, but again has excellent taber much contrasting freshness. A perfect wine for the upcoming cold season to warm you up, certainly ideal with game, goulash and stews." Weinwisser

"Curious bedfellows but it works. Inky black violet-crimson. A concentrated blackberry and blueberry nose with creamy touches. Really gains in depth with aeration. Succulent, cool dark fruit with velvety tannins. Very unostentatious and very easy to drink but probably needs an extra year for the oak to integrate fully." Jancis Robinson

Appius is the winery's flagship wine. The elegant, very aromatic cuvée from the white varieties Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris matures for one year in wood and three years on the fine lees in stainless steel. The nose has a complex aroma of tropical fruit and floral notes, flint, white chocolate and mint. Powerful, expansive and long on the palate. A marvellous white wine. SUPERIORE.DE

With the Pinot Nero Riserva Vigna Das Langefeld, the Pfitscher family has undoubtedly created an elegant top wine that perfectly reflects the identity of the terroir.

The small vineyard Das Langefeld is one of the highest and oldest Pinot Noir vineyards in South Tyrol. It is located in the Glen vineyard above Montan at around 550 metres above sea level. Alongside Mazzon, this site is certainly one of the best known and most recognised for this grape variety in Italy. Like all of the Pfitscher family's vineyards, this plot of only 4,000 square metres is cultivated exclusively organically. The vineyard faces west and is characterised by deep clay and limestone soils. The Guyot training system enables an enormous planting density of around 8,000 vines per hectare.

Today, Vigna Das Langefeld is a family project that Klaus Pfitscher started back in 1984 at the age of 24. Even then, he recognised the potential of the site and decided to plant Pinot Noir clones from Burgundy. Looking back, he states: "When I planted this vineyard in 1984, I was convinced that something great would come out of it. This wine is the fulfilment of a dream". His son Hannes, a trained Oenologist and cellar master at Pfitscher, is now passionate about the winery's wines together with his father. He adds: "We are all constantly striving for perfection. The age of the vines, the microclimate of Glen and the organic cultivation form the basis for a wine with great depth as well as excellent elegance and finesse, of which we are very proud".

Eros Teboni, WSA Best Sommelier of the World 2018, already had the masterpiece in his glass: "The Vigna Das Langefeld has an elegant, modern signature that is nevertheless strongly linked to the typicality of South Tyrolean wines. In other interpretations of this grape variety, you sometimes find more rustic traits: here, on the other hand, elegance and vibrancy predominate. A Pinot Noir with a strong identity and great personality, produced with the greatest commitment and attention to detail."

This wine is the result of a careful selection process in which healthy, fully ripe grapes from a small harvest are picked by hand. This is followed by a two-day cold maceration of the largely undestemmed grapes and a spontaneous fermentation of around 14 days. After a further 12 months of maturation in barriques, the wine rests and matures for six months in a 10 hl wooden barrel and then 30 months in the bottle. The wine is bottled unfined and unfiltered. The new top wine from Pfitscher is released in an edition of only 1,296 numbered bottles and we are delighted to be able to offer a few examples of this exclusive wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"A rich, savoury Pinot with ripe red and dark berries, bark, cocoa, damp earth and a hint of tar. Full and layered, quite weighty and deep, yet balanced and focused, with a firm tannic structure and a lingering finish. Earthy and spicy." James Suckling

"Elegant ruby red colour with a brightening rim. Inviting nose of blood orange, rosehip and raspberry, with light spices and fine, fragrant floral notes on the finish. On the palate with great, cool fruit and savoury tannins, shows beautiful depth, comes in many layers, salty, precise and with a lot of tension." Falstaff

Appius is the winery's flagship wine. The elegant, very aromatic cuvée from the white varieties Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris matures for one year in wood and three years on the fine lees in stainless steel. The nose has a complex aroma of tropical fruit and floral notes, flint, white chocolate and mint. Powerful, expansive and long on the palate. A marvellous white wine. SUPERIORE.DE

Dark, aromatic, full-bodied Lagrein Riserva. Smells of dark fruit, herbs, liquorice, toasted oak and minerals. Expansive and very generous on the palate, profound and endowed with marvellous minerality. SUPERIORE.DE

"Depths of cherry and plum sauce combine with sage, white pepper and clove as the 2021 Porphyr Lagrein Riserva smolders up from the glass. Silky upon entry, this quickly increases in tension as tart wild berry fruits saturate and grippy tannins collect toward the close. This finishes with dramatic length yet hulking structure. Bitter licorice hints linger." Vinous

"Creamy and fine-grained, with a supple palette of pureed blackberries, black cherry compote, violets, thyme and graphite notes. This medium to full-bodied version is elegant, with fine-grained tannins that define the lingering, savoury finish." Wine Spectator

Sauvignon Bianco Rachtl comes from a small micro-location of just 0.4 hectares. It gets its fine flint and graphite nose from the porphyry soils near Unteraicha in the municipality of Völs. Very subtle on the palate with fine saline acidity, fresh fruit and a long-lasting finish. If you can call one of the 2,000 bottles of this vintage your own, you can count yourself lucky! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, pale straw yellow with light green notes. Opens with notes of sage and flint, green asparagus and some smoke. Salty on the palate, shows very good tension, finely elaborated fruit, lingers beautifully." Falstaff

"The 2020 Sauvignon Blanc Riserva Rachtl shows aromas of candied lemon peel, preserved pineapple and a hint of ripe apricot. The wine has a medium-bodied texture with a certain heaviness of the warm vintage, but also a much-needed acidity. Only 2,000 bottles were produced." Wine Advocate

"Bright flavours of lemon, satsuma and smoky minerals with clean, precise acidity and nice concentration; long and fresh." Decanter

Sauvignon Bianco Rachtl comes from a small micro-location of just 0.4 hectares. It gets its fine flint and graphite nose from the porphyry soils near Unteraicha in the municipality of Völs. Very subtle on the palate with fine saline acidity, fresh fruit and a long-lasting finish. If you can call one of the 2,000 bottles of this vintage your own, you can count yourself lucky! SUPERIORE.DE

The rare Riserva Vorberg from Pinot Bianco is open, elegant and expressive. Brilliant straw yellow in colour with light green tones. Generous bouquet with delicately nuanced flavours of peach, apricot and spices. Cool, deep and with all the advantages of the grape variety on the palate. A noble Pinot Blanc with plenty of persistence and potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"An elegant, fine white wine with dense flavours of yellow plum, melon rind, chamomile and lemon wax. With a slightly chalky texture and mouth-watering acidity, it is long and supple, with grapefruit peel, ground pink pepper and mineral notes on the finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2021 Pinot Bianco Riserva Vorberg is youthfully coiled, as an airy blend of wild herbs and dried flowers gives way to young peach and apricot. This is seamlessly silky and serene on the palate, nearly oily in feel, with brisk acidity to balance and depths of ripe orchard fruits and mineral tones that saturate. The balance is perfect, lightly tannic and full of tension with a lemony concentration that puckers the cheeks as minty herbal tones fade. Green apple notes add a crunchy sensation toward the close. This fantastic rendition of Vorberg will thrive in a cold cellar." Vinous

"Vorberg is one of the world's great Pinot Blancs and opens with a fragrant aroma of ripe pear, green apple and a hint of almond. On the palate, it is lively with an interplay of citrus and stone fruit, carried by a refreshing acidity. The wine culminates in a structured finish that covers the whole range of cuisine." Wine Enthusiast

Troy is no ordinary Chardonnay. Rather, it is the archetype of a Chardonnay, as Wolfgang Klotz, managing director of probably the most successful winegrowers' cooperative in South Tyrol, sees it. The grapes come from two selected vineyards in Söll, near Tramin. Not only does a Mediterranean climate prevail there, but also quite cold fall winds at night determine the vegetation. Both factors ensure optimal development of the plants and fruits. The berries are handpicked piece by piece and it is therefore clear to every wine connoisseur that this is an absolutely prestigious project of the cooperative. It is therefore not surprising that only 3,000 bottles of this vintage are sold in selected specialist shops and top restaurants.

Intense straw to golden yellow. Tropical fruit on the nose, a hint of camomile and mint, then fine toasted notes and a subtle nutty touch. On the palate, you can almost taste the proximity of the mountains, its clarity, freshness and intensity: exotic notes of yellow ripe fruit, then again some nuttiness and in addition again a beguiling liveliness and minerality, which ends in an equally long final. Chardonnay can be like this, chapeau! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright straw yellow with a slight light gold. In the nose of ripe golden apple, banana, mango, light candle wax, pineapple, a hint of white chocolate in the aftertaste. Juicy, clear and radiant on the palate, opens with elegant melting and light cream, creamy course, stretches out in many layers, coherent in itself, long and deep." Falstaff

"Already in the bouquet, a beautiful smokiness as well as a dense, powerful yellow-fruity style is apparent, which almost reminds a little of Corton Charlemagne because of the mineral-spicy pithiness. In the mouth, a beautiful liaison of creamy yellow fruit and mineral-smoky notes, powerfully interwoven, yet showing a lot of tension with cool notes." Weinwisser

"The nose is already subtle and delicate, with floral notes, mirabelle plums, citrus fruits, white pepper, nettle and a hint of smoke and vanilla. Also almost delicately built on the palate and carried by a precise, very fresh acidity. An all-round harmonious cru." Vinum

"Cedar and butterscotch nose. Bitter apple, roast-potato skin, chicory leaf and kohlrabi rubbed with sweet lemon. Dried oregano. Herb-nutty-savoury, as if the fruit had been sprinkled with za'atar. Lots here already, but I think this wine has a lot more to give, given time." Jancis Robinson

"Ripe orchard fruit, apricot and oaky nose. Lovely freshness on the palate with creamy buttery notes and some wood spice. Long finish." Decanter

"At once very fresh - Amalfi lemon! - and very toasty in the nose, this is an immediately appealing chardonnay with quite some depth. Really attractive interplay of northern freshness with Mediterranean ripeness. Buttery and refreshing finish that pulls you back for more." James Suckling

Troy is no ordinary Chardonnay. Rather, it is the archetype of a Chardonnay, as Wolfgang Klotz, managing director of what is probably the most successful winegrowers' cooperative in South Tyrol, sees it. The grapes come from two selected vineyards in Söll, near Tramin. The climate there is not only Mediterranean, but the vegetation is also characterised by rather cold downdraughts at night. Both factors guarantee optimal development of the plants and fruit. The berries are hand-picked one by one, so it is clear to any wine connoisseur that this is an absolutely prestigious project for the co-operative. It is therefore not surprising that only 3,000 bottles of this grape variety are sold in selected specialist shops and top restaurants.

Intense straw to golden yellow in colour. On the nose, tropical fruit, a hint of camomile and mint, then fine toasted notes and a subtle nutty flavour. On the palate, you can almost taste the proximity of the mountains, its clarity, freshness and intensity: exotic notes of ripe yellow fruit, then some nutty flavours and again a beguiling liveliness and minerality that ends in an equally long final. Chardonnay can be like this, chapeau! SUPERIORE.DE

"A great classic with alpine character that comes from the oldest Chardonnay vines in the highest parcels of the Tramin winery. The interplay of warmth and coolness is already evident on the nose, with fresh pomaceous fruit, citrus and orange zest with a subtle smoky undercurrent. Grippy, relief-like texture on the palate, very fine grip, has depth, cool spice and stony-salty notes, focussed and long." Weinwisser

"Very promisingly reductive on the nose. Mineral notes reminiscent of chalk and graphite, delicate spice and fresh citrus fruit. Clear and pithy on the palate, with plenty of flavour. Animating!" Vinum

"Ripe peaches and mangoes with apple crumble, honeysuckle and cream. Full-bodied with a sophisticated texture. Creamy and delicate with fresh floral undertones and a hint of orange toffee on the finish." James Suckling

"An aromatic strand of graphite, lime blossom and spice winds its way through the glazed apple and apricot flavours of this lean, vibrant white wine, which shows a kind of audacious energy alongside a lovely balance. The fruit profile combines with notes of macadamia nuts, clementines, vanilla and stones that unfold on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"The Chardonnay Riserva Troy matured in barriques reveals buttery oak notes with French almond biscuits and patisserie. Sweet dried apricots continue on the palate. Pleasingly, it has good lift and a dolomitic character. Crumbled quartz and other minerals are reminiscent of picturesque mountains and glaciers. Serve this wine well chilled. Its fruity sweetness turns into a savoury note over time." Wine Advocate

Terlano I (pronounced Primo) Grande Cuvée is the name of the white flagship of Cantina Terlano. In recent years, the winery has made a name for itself worldwide with its long-lasting, mineral white wines. Even years later, the wines still present themselves with top freshness and great complexity. With this long history of white wines, since the 2011 vintage there is now a wine in which the essence of Terlan is expressed in an even more focussed way. Terlaner I Grande Cuvée combines the Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay and Sauvignon grape varieties from the Winkl, Kreuth and Vorberg vineyards to create a masterpiece which, due to its limited and exclusive nature, will only be available from hand-picked retailers and in selected top restaurants.

Brilliant straw yellow colour. Rich and complex on the nose with flavours of citrus fruit, white pepper and herbs as well as a delicate smoky note. Remarkable structure and refined texture that give it finesse, elegance and an unmistakable character. The extraordinarily long and salty finish leaves an almost endless impression as an expression of a unique mineral terroir. SUPERIORE.DE

"Highly refined and multi-layered fragrance with fine citrus, pink grapefruit and aromatic herbs. Something fascinating, almost primal with this distinctive herbal flavour. Wonderfully melting on the palate at first, but changes constantly in the glass and after a few minutes it appears very powerful with a delicate style and a juicy, vertical final, which is carried by the acidity and the spicy underlying fruit. What always fascinates me about these wines is the silky, melting mouthfeel with a refined texture." Weinwisser

"Brilliant light straw yellow with green nuances. Very clear and memorable nose, flavours of apricot, white peach, some mango, underpinned by flint and hazelnuts, exciting. Juicy and present on the palate, very clear, lots of fresh yellow fruit, salty, very long final." Falstaff

"The Terlaner Grande Cuvée Primo 2020 presents itself with a delicate blend of dusty stone, freshly spiced pear, white flowers and crushed raw almonds. It is elegance personified, silky yet lively. A hint of hazelnut custard enriches the notes of young peach, while a hint of minerality builds towards the end. The Primo finishes dramatically long yet youthfully tense, leaving a saturation of primary fruit that lingers under a bloom of citrus. The word "wow" doesn't do this wine justice. The 2020 is still a baby today. Is it Grande Cuvée or Grand Cru? Either way, it's fantastic." Vinous

"Layers of stone fruit and vanilla spice on the nose; tremendously intense and focused with mouthwatering acidity and a core of youthful citrus fruit that carries through to the long and well-defined finish. Fabulous and will only get better with age." Decanter

"It's so beautiful, with candied apples, peach peel, honeysuckle and almond biscuits. Also a hint of candied citrus and dried Mediterranean herbs. Full-bodied, so complex and concentrated. Impressively balanced and polished, with a structured mouthfeel and a delicate phenolic impression on the finish. Very long. Beautiful now, but there's no doubting its longevity." James Suckling

"The Terlaner Grand Cuvée Primo is all about texture. This beautiful wine bears the unique characteristics of oak and yeast ageing, which give it a delicate creaminess. It has plenty of richness and softness, followed by white wine tannins. Its rich and viscous mouthfeel is a perfect sounding board for lemon curd, caramel cream and the gelatine on a fruit tart." Wine Advocate

Troy is not a normal Chardonnay. Rather, it is the archetype of a Chardonnay, as Wolfgang Klotz, managing director of probably the most successful winegrowers' cooperative in South Tyrol, sees it. The grapes come from two selected vineyards in Söll, near Tramin. Not only does a Mediterranean climate prevail there, but also quite cold fall winds at night determine the vegetation. Both factors ensure optimal development of the plants and fruits. The berries are handpicked piece by piece and it is therefore clear to every wine connoisseur that this is an absolutely prestigious project of the cooperative. It is therefore not surprising that only 3,000 bottles of this vintage are sold in selected specialist shops and top restaurants.

Intense straw to golden yellow. Tropical fruit on the nose, a hint of camomile and mint, then fine toasted notes and a subtle nutty touch. On the palate, you can almost taste the proximity of the mountains, its clarity, freshness and intensity: exotic notes of yellow ripe fruit, then again some nuttiness and in addition again a beguiling liveliness and minerality, which ends in an equally long final. Chardonnay can be like this, chapeau! SUPERIORE.DE

"Very typical, smoky underpinned Chardonnay fragrance with yellow stone fruit, peach, delicate exoticism with pineapple and mango, supported by a smoky-nutty backdrop in which roasted hazelnuts and fine caramel bring Burgundy to mind again. Dense and full-bodied in the mouth with a creamy texture reminiscent of salty butter, wonderfully contrasted by the spicy-salty freshness that increasingly sets the tone." Weinwisser

"The 2019 Chardonnay Riserva Troy rises from the glass with enriching notes of hazelnut and custard before giving way to white flowers and hints of opal apple. This wine is elegant from start to finish, with ripe orchard fruits and sweet spices perfectly contrasted by salty minerality. The Troy finishes long and lightly textured, leaving notes of raw almonds and candied limes. Although a little hedonistic on the nose, the balance of this wine is a feast for the eyes. Cellaring should help integrate some of the 2019 oak flavours." Vinous

"One of the winery's top wines, the Cantina Tramin 2019 Alto Adige Chardonnay Riserva Troy opens a little slowly. It has had a long maturation process: 11 months in barrique and 22 months in stainless steel. With a little coaxing, this alpine white wine finally blossoms, showing orchard fruit, pie crust and baked apple." Wine Advocate

"Peach, pie crust, pineapple and mango crumble on the nose with hazelnuts and salted caramel. Full-bodied with a lovely buttery texture. Long and lush, yet with lemony freshness and saline undertones." James Suckling

"Brilliant yellow apples and lemon zest with a lurking wealth of toasted vanilla and lush, chalky minerality keeping the structure in check. Long and impressive." Decanter

"Intense bright straw yellow with green nuances. Opens with fresh notes of mint, then lots of clear fruit, pineapple and mango, some beeswax, very inviting. Extremely juicy and present on the palate, shows lots of tropical fruit, very appealing, well-integrated acidity gives tension, long finish." Falstaff

"One of the "untouchable" products from the Termeno winery's research. A lively Chardonnay, with a faceted nose, yellow plum, then rosemary, lemongrass and ginger. Notes of white pepper on the finish. The palate is tasty, with officinal fruity return and spicy memories." Luca Gardini

Terlano I (pronounced Primo) Grande Cuvée is the name of the white flagship of Cantina Terlano. In recent years, the winery has made a name for itself worldwide with its long-lasting, mineral white wines. Even years later, the wines still present themselves with top freshness and great complexity. With this long history of white wines, since the 2011 vintage there is now a wine in which the essence of Terlan is expressed in an even more focussed way. Terlaner I Grande Cuvée combines the Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay and Sauvignon grape varieties from the Winkl, Kreuth and Vorberg vineyards to create a masterpiece which, due to its limited and exclusive nature, will only be available from hand-picked retailers and in selected top restaurants.

Brilliant straw yellow colour. Rich and complex on the nose with flavours of citrus fruit, white pepper and herbs as well as a delicate smoky note. Remarkable structure and refined texture that give it finesse, elegance and an unmistakable character. The extraordinarily long and salty finish leaves an almost endless impression as an expression of a unique mineral terroir. SUPERIORE.DE

"A skein of fragrant spices and white flowers laces flavors of ripe pineapple, tangerine peel, white cherry and Marcona almond. Expressive and rich on the palate, but mouthwatering acidity creates a sleek and harmonious frame without excessive weight. This beautiful version is long and exuberant on the finish, where a minerally underpinning emerges to linger alongside the lovely profile." Wine Spectator

"Intense and mineral from the start, the 2021 Terlaner I Primo Grande Cuvée opens with a beguiling blend of flint stones, camphor and white smoke, giving way to dried peaches and apricots. It sweeps across the palate, ripe in style yet refined, with silken textures, taking on a saline tinge as tart orchard fruits cascade throughout, complicated by a spicy hint of ginger. Long, long, long, the 2021 lingers on, youthfully tense and gently tannic, with a crunchy feel and sensation of liquid stone that remains under an air of pretty inner florals. The potential is off the charts. This is a I Primo for the ages." Vinous

Noble, white cuvée made from Pinot Bianco, Chardonnay and Sauvignon, as majestic as the Terlan castle ruins of the same name. Powerful and complex, multi-faceted, exotic and mineral, this classic Terlaner brings out the advantages of the growing region with a strong character. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2021 Terlaner Riserva Cuvée Nova Domus lifts up with an airy bouquet that blends ground ginger with dusty dried flowers, crushed green apples and spice aromas. This washes across the palate with silky textures and ripe orchard fruits. Sour citrus notes add contrast, guided by brisk acidity. The 2021 finishes full of youthful tension and lightly tannic, leaving a spicy sensation and a bitter lemon rind tinge that class the taster back to the glass." Vinous

"Aromas of warmed pears with spices, delicate white flowers and the peel of lemons, limes and kumquats. On the palate, there is an invigorating acidity carried by citrus oils, fresh herbs and a pronounced sharpness that not only revitalises the palate but also the soul." Wine Enthusiast

"This is a very straightforward white wine with tension and acidity that kicks in at the end, giving it fantastic energy and length. It is medium to full-bodied with sliced pineapple, lemon and green apple before a lively finish. There are also undertones of lemongrass and tarragon. Complex and complete. Better after 2025, but already exciting to drink now." James Suckling

The single-varietal Cabernet Sauvignon Toren is the only red cru from Tiefenbrunner's rare Vigna line and comes from a 0.6 ha micro-location with clay and limestone gravel soils: sparkling garnet red with a slight violet tinge. Very intense and appealing nose, with aromas of cassis, blackberry, tobacco and mint. Rich, concise fruit on the palate, mountains of cassis and cranberries, juicy and dense, builds beautifully with ripe tannins, long final. SUPERIORE.DE

Appius is the winery's flagship wine. The elegant, very aromatic cuvée from the white varieties Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris matures for one year in wood and three years on the fine lees in stainless steel. The nose has a complex aroma of tropical fruit and floral notes, flint, white chocolate and mint. Powerful, expansive and long on the palate. A marvellous white wine. SUPERIORE.DE

The single-varietal Cabernet Sauvignon Toren is the only red cru from Tiefenbrunner's rare –line and comes from a 0.6 –microlocation with – and –gravel soils: Sparkling garnet red with a slight violet shimmer. Very intense and appealing nose, smelling of cassis, blackberry, tobacco and mint. Also on the palate rich, incisive fruit, mountains of cassis and cranberries, juicy and dense, builds up nicely with ripe tannin, long final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, concentrated ruby with a fine violet shimmer. Opens with balsamic notes, mint and eucalyptus, then lots of blueberry and blackcurrant, very precise. Substantial and firm in attack and course, opens with lots of present, very well integrated tannin, coated with fine melting, ripe, concentrated berry fruit, long finish." Falstaff

"Bright cassis fruit and smoky nose. The palate has lots of black fruit and spicy, graphite notes, plus ripe and silky tannins. Long finish. Good ageing potential." Decanter

"The Tiefenbrunner 2018 Alto Adige Cabernet Sauvignon Riserva Vigna Toren shows dark concentration with saturated hues of blackish blue and purple. This wine is juicy and thick, offering big intensity, with blackberry, dried plum and sweet earth. This soft and richly layered Cabernet Sauvignon (with a mere 1,610 bottles produced) is born in a 0.6–hectare vineyard site that is intersected by the warmer bands of mountain air at a moderate 270 to 320 meters in elevation. Tobacco and cured leather add complexity." Wine Advocate

Elegant Pinot Nero with a complex bouquet of blackberry and raspberry, candied orange peel in the background. Clear and straightforward on the palate; polished, fine tannins and a beautiful melt in the very long final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Healthy, youthful ruby. An enticing, complex, sweet oak and balsamic red-fruit nose. Juicy cherry and raspberry palate. Elegant and long with super-fine tannins and plenty of freshness." Jancis Robinson

The name says it all. This wine is a reminiscence of a bygone era. It is a Gewürztraminer vinified in a traditional style with clearly perceptible residual sugar. The grapes come from two of the oldest Gewürztraminer sites near the Nußbaumerhof in Tramin from soils with calcareous gravel and porphyry rock.

To develop its character in the best possible way, Epokale matures for seven years in the darkness of the Ridnaun gallery on the Schneeberg at an altitude of over 2,000 metres. Here, four kilometres deep inside the mountain, it retains its freshness and gains elegance thanks to an environment with constant humidity and a cool temperature of 11 degrees all year round.

Intense golden yellow. Impressive bouquet of rose petals, some lavender and ripe, exotic fruits. Spicy notes of dried herbs, sage, ginger, saffron and cinnamon. A wine of pronounced aromatics, infinite depth with simultaneous fine spicy juiciness and salty minerality. The acidity harmonises unparalleled with the highly refined residual sweetness and makes this Spätlese-Riserva a unique experience. There are 2,500 bottles of this vintage. SUPERIORE.DE

"Shimmering fragrance, although it seems almost closed, it shows itself to be incredibly finesse-rich, multi-layered with mineral piquancy and elegant fruit body, reminiscent of apricot and lychee. Wonderfully finely woven in the mouth, elegant, vinous acidity, could perhaps have a bit more pressure and piquancy to cushion the fullness even better. Then there would have been even more here. Still belongs to the best vintages of the Epokale." Weinwisser

"Shiny, light golden yellow. Very clear and intense nose, of yellow roses, lychee, ripe mango, some dried orange peel. Balanced and round in the attack, glides along nicely, after dried apricots, roses and saffron, then unfortunately a bit broad in the final, still very young." Falstaff

"Frankly sweet gewurz is something one rarely reaches for, but this is so beautifully balanced and so elegant we suggest reaching for it would be a very smart move. Wonderfully delicate aromas of rose water, candied pineapple and lemon with just a whiff of smoke. This is very enticing. The long filigree finish has a texture that must be experienced to be believed! Bottled after aging for 6 years in the Ridanna Monteneve mine." James Suckling

"2015 was an early harvest in near-perfect weather conditions. Intense youthful burnished gold in colour, broad, fresh and fragrant aromas of candied citrus fruits are seasoned with notes of freshly crushed spice. In the mouth there's tremendous freshness and intensity of juicy almost-tropical and citrus fruit flavours; a stunning mixture! For now there's less sugar evident, despite the higher value, thanks to the good underpinning acidity. This clearly demands a great deal more time." Decanter

"A return to the roots of this typology. Old vineyards, seven years of ageing in Ridanna Monteneve mine, over 2000 meters above sea level. White melon and lychee to the nose, then saffron and fresh sage on the closure. Juicysapid to the palate, persistent with officinal return." Luca Gardini

The name says it all. This wine is a reminiscence of a bygone era. It is a Gewürztraminer vinified in a traditional style with clearly perceptible residual sugar. The grapes come from two of the oldest Gewürztraminer sites near the Nußbaumerhof in Tramin from soils with calcareous gravel and porphyry rock.

To develop its character in the best possible way, Epokale matures for seven years in the darkness of the Ridnaun gallery on the Schneeberg at an altitude of over 2,000 metres. Here, four kilometres deep inside the mountain, it retains its freshness and gains elegance thanks to an environment with constant humidity and a cool temperature of 11 degrees all year round.

Intense golden yellow. Impressive bouquet of rose petals, some lavender and ripe, exotic fruits. Spicy notes of dried herbs, sage, ginger, saffron and cinnamon. A wine of pronounced aromatics, infinite depth with simultaneous fine spicy juiciness and salty minerality. The acidity harmonises unparalleled with the highly refined residual sweetness and makes this Spätlese-Riserva a unique experience. There are 2,500 bottles of this vintage. SUPERIORE.DE

"Shimmering fragrance, although it seems almost closed, it shows itself here incredibly finesse-rich, multi-layered with mineral piquancy and elegant fruit body, reminiscent of apricot and lychee. In the mouth, wonderfully finely woven, elegant, vinous acidity, could perhaps have a bit more pressure and piquancy to cushion the fullness even better. Then there would have been even more here. Still belongs to the best vintages of the Epokale." Weinwisser

"Shiny, light golden yellow. Very clear and intense nose, of yellow roses, lychee, ripe mango, some dried orange peel. Balanced and round in the attack, glides along nicely, after dried apricots, roses and saffron, then unfortunately a bit broad in the final, still very young." Falstaff

"Frankly sweet gewurz is something one rarely reaches for, but this is so beautifully balanced and so elegant we suggest reaching for it would be a very smart move. Wonderfully delicate aromas of rose water, candied pineapple and lemon with just a whiff of smoke. This is very enticing. The long filigree finish has a texture that must be experienced to be believed! Bottled after aging for 6 years in the Ridanna Monteneve mine." James Suckling

"2015 was an early harvest in near-perfect weather conditions. Intense youthful burnished gold in colour, broad, fresh and fragrant aromas of candied citrus fruits are seasoned with notes of freshly crushed spice. In the mouth there's tremendous freshness and intensity of juicy almost-tropical and citrus fruit flavours; a stunning mixture! For now there's less sugar evident, despite the higher value, thanks to the good underpinning acidity. This clearly demands a great deal more time." Decanter

"A return to the roots of this typology. Old vineyards, seven years of ageing in Ridanna Monteneve mine, over 2000 meters above sea level. White melon and lychee to the nose, then saffron and fresh sage on the closure. Juicysapid to the palate, persistent with officinal return." Luca Gardini

The name says it all. This wine is a reminiscence of a bygone era. It is a Gewürztraminer vinified in the traditional style with clearly perceptible residual sugar. The grapes come from two of the oldest Gewürztraminer vineyards near the Nußbaumerhof in Tramin from soils with calcareous gravel and porphyry rock.

In order to develop its character in the best possible way, Epokale matures for seven years in the darkness of the Ridnaun tunnel on the Schneeberg at an altitude of over 2,000 metres. Here, four kilometres deep inside the mountain, it retains its freshness and gains elegance thanks to an environment in which constant humidity and a cool temperature of 11 degrees prevail all year round.

Intense golden yellow colour. Impressive bouquet of rose petals, some lavender and ripe, exotic fruit. Spicy notes of dried herbs, sage, ginger, saffron and cinnamon. A wine with pronounced flavours, infinite depth and at the same time fine spicy juiciness and salty minerality. The acidity harmonises perfectly with the extremely fine residual sweetness, making this late harvest Riserva a unique experience. There are 2,500 bottles of this vintage. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, rich golden yellow with a green glow. Complex and intense nose of ripe peach and apricot, some dried orange peel and cloves. Round and full on the palate, lots of present fruit, spreads out with firm pressure, a slight bitter note on the final." Falstaff

"Deep, firm and complex, almost cool fragrance with noble stone fruit aromas, some lychee and orange zest, floral aromas, a hint of caramel, delicate herbs and yellow spice. Dense, ripe, very juicy and complex spicy, sweet fruit with nutty, smoky, herbal-vegetable and floral notes, orange and mandarin zest on the palate, again some caramel, deep, multi-layered and persistent, clear minerality in the background, perfectly integrated sweetness, quite noble character, very good to long, concentrated, juicy and spicy finish with very fine grip and persistence." Wein-Plus

"Cantina Tramin has devoted enormous effort to Gewürztraminer over the years, and this wine is a culmination of research and experimentation. The Gewürztraminer Spätlese Epokale 2016 (of which there are only 2,400 bottles) matures first in stainless steel and then for six long years in the bottle at the back of an old mine. It opens with a bright, golden yellow colour and offers exceptional aromas of drunken pear, babà napoletano, icing sugar, tarte aux pommes and an exotic hint of baklava." Wine Advocate

"Epokale is the top bottling of Gewürztraminer from Tramin, reminiscent of the traditional style of the region, with plenty of residual sugar. Nevertheless, it is incredibly balanced and fresh. Produced for the first time in 2009, Epokale is made from grapes grown on dolomitic limestone soils with a high clay content. This helps to cool the vines and ensures maximum acidity, which balances out the high sugar content of the grapes. The wine is vinified in stainless steel before being taken to an old silver mine at 2,000 metres above sea level, 4 km inside the mountain, where there is a constant temperature of 11°C with high humidity. Here the wine rests for seven years. This 2016, the most recent release, is rich, round, viscous and spicy, with flavours of stone fruit, lime and lychee as well as grilled pineapple, rosewater, apricot, white peach and floral aromas. A savoury finish helps to cleanse the palate while maintaining a certain verticality despite its full body. Drink it now, or savour it over the next 10 years (or longer)." Decanter

"Impressive concentration and richness with a tropical and spicy character with notes of dried mango and persimmon, with hints of flowers and dried herbs. Full and broad on the palate with moderate sweetness and polished texture. Very delicate and smooth with undertones of dried fruit and honey. Delicious and long." James Suckling

"A return to the roots of the variety. Old vines, then aged for seven years in the Ridanna Monteneve mine at an altitude of over 2,000 metres. White melon and lychee on the nose, then saffron and fresh sage on the finish. Juicy and flavoursome on the palate, lingering." Luca Gardini

Troy is no ordinary Chardonnay. Rather, it is the archetype of a Chardonnay, as Wolfgang Klotz, managing director of what is probably the most successful winegrowers' cooperative in South Tyrol, sees it. The grapes come from two selected vineyards in Söll, near Tramin. The climate there is not only Mediterranean, but the vegetation is also characterised by rather cold downdraughts at night. Both factors guarantee optimal development of the plants and fruit. The berries are hand-picked one by one, so it is clear to any wine connoisseur that this is an absolutely prestigious project for the co-operative. It is therefore not surprising that only 3,000 bottles of this grape variety are sold in selected specialist shops and top restaurants.

Intense straw to golden yellow in colour. On the nose, tropical fruit, a hint of camomile and mint, then fine toasted notes and a subtle nutty flavour. On the palate, you can almost taste the proximity of the mountains, its clarity, freshness and intensity: exotic notes of ripe yellow fruit, then some nutty flavours and again a beguiling liveliness and minerality that ends in an equally long final. Chardonnay can be like this, chapeau! SUPERIORE.DE

"A great classic with alpine character that comes from the oldest Chardonnay vines in the highest parcels of the Tramin winery. The interplay of warmth and coolness is already evident on the nose, with fresh pomaceous fruit, citrus and orange zest with a subtle smoky undercurrent. Grippy, relief-like texture on the palate, very fine grip, has depth, cool spice and stony-salty notes, focussed and long." Weinwisser

"Very promisingly reductive on the nose. Mineral notes reminiscent of chalk and graphite, delicate spice and fresh citrus fruit. Clear and pithy on the palate, with plenty of flavour. Animating!" Vinum

"Ripe peaches and mangoes with apple crumble, honeysuckle and cream. Full-bodied with a sophisticated texture. Creamy and delicate with fresh floral undertones and a hint of orange toffee on the finish." James Suckling

"An aromatic strand of graphite, lime blossom and spice winds its way through the glazed apple and apricot flavours of this lean, vibrant white wine, which shows a kind of audacious energy alongside a lovely balance. The fruit profile combines with notes of macadamia nuts, clementines, vanilla and stones that unfold on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"The barrique-aged Chardonnay Riserva Troy has buttery oak notes with French almond pastry and pâtisserie. Sweet dried apricots continue to the palate. There is good lift, thankfully, with a Dolomitic character. Crushed quartz and other minerals evoke picturesque mountains and glaciers. Serve this wine extra chilled. Its fruity sweetness dovetails into a salty note with time." Wine Advocate

Terlano I (pronounced Primo) Grande Cuvée is the name of the white flagship of Cantina Terlano. In recent years, the winery has made a name for itself worldwide with its long-lasting, mineral white wines. Even years later, the wines still present themselves with top freshness and great complexity. With this long history of white wines, since the 2011 vintage there is now a wine in which the essence of Terlan is expressed in an even more focussed way. Terlaner I Grande Cuvée combines the Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay and Sauvignon grape varieties from the Winkl, Kreuth and Vorberg vineyards to create a masterpiece which, due to its limited and exclusive nature, will only be available from hand-picked retailers and in selected top restaurants.

Brilliant straw yellow colour. Rich and complex on the nose with flavours of citrus fruit, white pepper and herbs as well as a delicate smoky note. Remarkable structure and refined texture that give it finesse, elegance and an unmistakable character. The extraordinarily long and salty finish leaves an almost endless impression as an expression of a unique mineral terroir. SUPERIORE.DE

"A skein of fragrant spices and white flowers laces flavors of ripe pineapple, tangerine peel, white cherry and Marcona almond. Expressive and rich on the palate, but mouthwatering acidity creates a sleek and harmonious frame without excessive weight. This beautiful version is long and exuberant on the finish, where a minerally underpinning emerges to linger alongside the lovely profile." Wine Spectator

"Intense and mineral from the start, the 2021 Terlaner I Primo Grande Cuvée opens with a beguiling blend of flint stones, camphor and white smoke, giving way to dried peaches and apricots. It sweeps across the palate, ripe in style yet refined, with silken textures, taking on a saline tinge as tart orchard fruits cascade throughout, complicated by a spicy hint of ginger. Long, long, long, the 2021 lingers on, youthfully tense and gently tannic, with a crunchy feel and sensation of liquid stone that remains under an air of pretty inner florals. The potential is off the charts. This is a I Primo for the ages." Vinous

From deep moraine soil with a high salt and lime content, Vigna Au first opens with flint and walnut and then beguiles with a complex bouquet of yellow, exotic fruits. Intense, juicy, with just the right amount of acidity, it has a maturation potential of at least 15 years. Just 2,000 bottles of this exceptional Chardonnay are bottled each year. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Vigna Au lies at a relatively low altitude of 300 metres above sea level in Kurtatsch-Margreid. Great aromas, with very clear citrus fruit and flavours of yellow fruit, paired with fine oak spice. Also mineral notes reminiscent of graphite and salt. Extremely juicy, clear and animating on the palate. Pithy final." Vinum

"The 2020 Chardonnay Riserva Vigna AU blends rich notes of almond custard and confectionary spice with an invigorating blend of crushed green apples and lime zest. Luxuriously round and supple, the 2020 flows across the palate with masses of mineral-tinged orchard fruits offset by sour citrus. Lightly structured yet full of zesty tension, the 2020 finishes long with a caking of saline tension that resonates." Vinous