Schiava Gentile DOC 2021

Origin

The Schiava (= Vernatsch, from the Latin „vernaculus“ to „native“) has a long tradition in Alto Adige and in the Middle Age it was known as „Farnatzer.“ Until a few decades ago, 80 per cent of the area in South Tyrol has been cultivated with Schiava. Meanwhile, that percentage has dropped to below 20 percent. However, the Schiava is still the most widely planted variety in the region.

Vintage

In many respects 2021 was a demanding and challenging wine growing year. The winter months were mainly sunny but very cold. In spring the temperature was slow to rise, and that delayed the vegetative development of the vines. This was only partly compensated by the warm and sunny start to the summer, while the weather in July and August was very varied. The grape harvest accordingly began relatively late, on September 9. The wet September was an organizational problem for our wine growers, but ultimately a very good harvest was completed on October 26.

Tasting notes

– light cherry red
– aromatic, fruity nose, dominated by cherry and raspberry tones, with hints of bitter almonds
– middle-bodied, very soft on the palate, a pure drinking pleasure

Recommendation

This wine is ideal as an aperitif, an accompaniment to appetizers, or to typical Tyrolean fare such as speck and sausage, but also to lighter meats and mild cheeses.

Vinification

One week fermentation on the skins at a temperature of 24°C, malo-lactic fermentation and 4-month ageing on the fine lees in stainless steel and large casks.

Vineyard

South- and east-facing slopes at an altitude of 230 – 350 meters above sea level. Loamy, chalky gravel with a low proportion of sand.