Archive: Italy: Alto Adige: Red
2007 Kalterersee Classico Superiore Lago di Caldaro ($N/A). This is another bottle I toted home — it’s 100% Schiava, which is such a light-colored, juicy red wine, it’s very nearly a rosé. We all fell in love with the stuff during our tour, and this was one of my favorites for its crushed red fruit character, elegant mineral notes and clean, bright finish. Guy said it was the ‘best Schiava I’ve ever had’ and noted its delicate, soft texture (there’s that word again) its cherry and stone notes, and a slight herbal edge. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-04-10)
2007 Pinot Noir Alto Adige Mason ($60). Fresh, pretty red berry and cherry aromas and pronounced flavors, with a full finish that focuses on the fruit, keeping the toasty, creamy, oak spice notes in the background. Guy commented on the smoky oak, vanilla notes, the texture and the cherry fruit, saying he ‘liked this a lot’ and comparing it to a Village level, or better, Burgundy. Ready to drink now and over the next 8-10 years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-04-10)
Muri Gries 2005 Lagrein Alto Adige ($37). Violet, black currant and berry aromas and flavors are backed with bright acidity. Refreshing, vibrant, the opposite of heavy-handed, and quite food friendly. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-03-11)
St. Michael Eppan 2006 Pinot Nero Alto Adige Riserva ($27). Very light and delicate, nearly pale, but appealing for its fresh red berry and currant character, with mineral and mushroom notes that linger on the finish. Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-03-11)