Cantina Tramin: a journey through South Tyrolean wines

The Charm of South Tyrolean Viticulture: A Brief History

Viticulture in South Tyrol has roots that trace back to the Roman era, when the construction of the Via Claudia Augusta opened the door to merchants bringing the first saplings.

However, it was during the Austrian Empire that the region saw a significant boost, introducing grape varieties like Riesling and Pinot types.

Since the 1980s, local producers have led the industry towards modernization and quality, positioning South Tyrolean wines beyond regional borders.

South Tyrolean Pedoclimate: The Heart of Oenological Excellence

The pedoclimatic characteristics of South Tyrol are the secret behind the fame of its wines.

Limestone and porphyry soils provide acidity and balanced tannins, while the thermal excursions and continental-alpine climate create a unique array of aromas.

Here, wines of extraordinary elegance are produced, comparable to the oenological jewels of Alsace.

South Tyrolean Wines: A Journey Through Flavors

Among the most cultivated grape varieties, Schlieren, Pinot Noir, and Lagrein stand out for red wines, while for whites the dominant varieties are Pinot Bianco, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Gewürztraminer, Müller-Thurgau, and Kerner.

The DOCs of South Tyrol, such as Caldaro and Valdadige, embrace a controlled production that covers 90% of the total.

Deep Roots and Evolved Winemaking

The roots of South Tyrolean viticulture go back to ancient times, evidenced by the discovery of grape seeds from 500 BC.

The encounter between Roman techniques and Rhaetian traditions marked the beginning of an important phase in winemaking.

During the Middle Ages, white wines dominated, but the 1500s saw the introduction of reds.

Archduke Johann of Austria played a key role in introducing varieties such as Riesling.

In 1893, the first social wineries were established, and in 1931, the Royal Decree on typical wines set the first quality protections.

The Renaissance of South Tyrolean Winemaking: From 1980 to Today

Since 1980, South Tyrolean viticulture has experienced an unprecedented boom.

Quality, selection of varieties, reduction of yields, and the adoption of modern technologies have led to an extraordinary leap in quality.

Currently, 98.8% of the vineyard area is protected by the DOC regulations, a figure that far exceeds any other Italian region.

Cantina Tramin: A Dream Come True

The Cantina Tramin, founded in 1898 by Christian Schrott, the parish priest of Termeno, is an example of cooperation that embraces 300 small producers across 260 hectares.

Led by Willi Stürz since 1995, who was named the best winemaker in Italy in 2004, the winery is based on sharing and respect for the land.

With an average production of 1.9 million bottles per year, Cantina Tramin is a distinctive presence in both the national and international markets.

The Wines of Cantina Tramin: Expression of the Territory

Cantina Tramin, through a culture of cooperation and targeted production, expresses in its wines the unique character of the South Tyrolean nature.

Thanks to strong thermal excursions and soil minerality, the wines are elegant and structured.

From Schlieren to Pinot Grigio, Cantina Tramin offers a variety of labels that satisfy every palate, representing the excellence of a territory rich in tradition and quality.

In conclusion, Cantina Tramin represents not only an excellent winemaking reality but also a guardian of South Tyrolean traditions and oenological culture, carrying on its commitment with passion and dedication.

A journey through vineyards, history, and flavors that reflects the authenticity of a unique territory in the world.

Angela Cordioli