From: Italy
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Due to its proximity to the Austrian border, Cantina Valle Isarco also carries the German name “Eisacktaler Kellerei”. Founded in 1961, it is considered one of Italy’s most prestigious co-operatives and currently has 130 members from 11 municipalities in Varna, Bressanone, Funes/Tiso, Velturno, Chiusa, Laion, Castelrotto, Villandro, Barbiano, Fié and Renon. The vineyards, which span 346 acres in total are located in the northernmost winegrowing zone of Trentino-Alto Adige or Südtirol (South Tyrol, in German), on the southern side of the Alps. This picturesque region boasts majestic mountains interspersed with quaint Alpine farmhouses, castles, monasteries, little villages and terraced vineyards enclosed within neat low stone walls. Vineyards are situated on fairly steep slopes that range in elevation from 1300-1950 ft. Despite its Alpine location, Trentino-Alto Adige enjoys a very warm summer climate with cool evenings, resulting in grapes that mature with high sugar content. The light and gravelly soils are mineral-rich, yielding wines of elegance and complexity.
Tasting Notes: Cool climate Pinot Noir, made by a husband & wife organic farmstead located in Velturno/Fedlthurns, a tiny alpine village nestled in the northerly reaches of Alto-Adige. The vineyards are situated on the steep south-facing mountain slopes with poor rocky soil that brings out great complexity in the wine.