The most important indigenous grape variety of this region, Schiava (or Vernatsch), thrives in the vineyards surrounding Lake Kaltern. The lake has lent its name to the Kalterersee designation of origin, introduced in 1970, making it the oldest DOC in the region. While the cultivated area of Schiva has declined significantly over the past decades, the wine itself has undergone a remarkable transformation: from a simple everyday wine to an elegant, high-quality wine with fine structure and finesse.
The designation Kalterersee Classico Superiore is reserved for Schiava wines from the vineyards located around Lake Kaltern. When the Schiava grapes are ripe, they develop an enticing shimmer of bright ruby red – like an ode to joy in life, a joie de vivre that stands for enjoyment and relaxation. As a versatile companion to so many types of food, Kalterersee is one of the few all-rounders in the world of wine: A soft and elegant wine which, served lightly chilled in its lighter, more fruity interpretations, is a wonderful aperitif and also goes well not only with traditional Alto Adige dumplings but also with smoked fresh, grilled vegetables and even sushi. More structured Schiava (Kalterersee) wines are an excellent accompaniment to the classic Alto Adige platter, white meats and poultry and also underscore their flexibility in combination with Mediterranean pasta dishes and pizzas.
Brilliant, cherry red hue. Flowery and fruity tones, violets and red berries. Very juicy and full, round soft finish with a dubdued undertone of bitter almonds
Schiava is one of the three autochthonous grape varieties of Alto Adige (along with Lagrein and Gewürztraminer), which can be traced back to the late Middle Ages. Although the area under cultivation for Schiava grapes has declined sharply in recent decades, the variety has seen some impressive developments – from a simple tipple to a quality wine. Now that lighter, easy-drinking wines with less broad shoulders have become more popular again, Schiava has very much moved with the times. Today, it accounts for almost 15% of the total vineyard area in Alto Adige.
