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Autochthonous wines: Vernatsch and Lagrein

Two grapes that have their origin in the holiday region Bolzano and environs

Vernatsch and Lagrein are the two autochthonous grapes that thrive in the holiday region Bolzano and environs. A grape is said to be autochthonous if it has its origin in the region where it is grown.

Vernatsch

Vernatsch has been playing a central role in South Tyrolean viticulture since the 16th century. Today Vernatsch is still the most popular grape in the country and is cultivated on 846 ha, in particular in Appiano and Caldaro, the largest wine growing communities in South Tyrol.
Vernatsch is a light wine low in tannin, of a light to deep ruby colour. It tastes pleasantly mild and fruity, with hints of bitter almond and a character typical for the region: Lake Caldaro Vernatsch is said to be mellow, Merano Vernatsch spicy and St. Magdalener full bodied.
Vernatsch is a wine suitable for easy drinking, with starters and typical Tyrolean meals such as Speck cured ham and sausages, but also with white meat and mild cheeses.

Lagrein

Lagrein is ruby red to dark garnet red, smells of violets and blackberries, and has a full, velvety flavour with slightly dry nuances. Lagrein is best served with game, roasts, dark meat and hard cheeses. It is grown mainly in the Bolzano basin, Bassa Atesina, Oltradige and Val d’Adige.

The Lagrein Kretzer or rosé is a pink to light ruby coloured wine with a delicate and pleasant smell. It has a revitalising and fresh taste. It is served a little colder than the Lagrein and goes well with hearty starters, smoked fish and white meat.

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