Winemaker Notes
Grapes and pomegranate have common origins and are often found growing together in the Mediterranean basin. The pomegranate fruit also possesses the charm, beauty and intensity of grapes. It is thanks to this union that the name 'Granato' derives, the name of a Teroldego of a particular concentration and density that sinks its roots into the stones of the three vineyards in Campo Rotaliano.
Professional Ratings
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Vinous
Dark as night, the 2021 Teroldego Granato smolders up from the glass with an array of crushed ashen stones and earth tones giving way to black raspberries, mentholated herbs and exotic spice. Silky smooth yet full of zesty tension, this sweeps across the palate with tart wild berry fruits and sour citrus tones propelled by vibrant acidity. The 2021 leaves the senses drenched in primary concentration with a tart blackberry crunch, seeds and all, and edgy tannins that grumble on. This especially intense and tightly knit Granato will pay dividends in the cellar.
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Wine Spectator
A graceful, enticing red, with aromas of violet, graphite and cigar box spices wafting through flavors of pureed blackberry and mulberry, rooibos tea leaf, plum skin and pomegranate seed. Long and supple, with seamless integration of the fine, lightly chalky tannins and bright acidity with the expressive profile. The lasting finish echoes floral and spice details. Teroldego. Drink now through 2035. 1,660 cases made, 150 cases imported.
Beyond the usual suspects, there are hundreds of red grape varieties grown throughout the world. Some are indigenous specialties capable of producing excellent single varietal wines, while others are better suited for use as blending grapes. Each has its own distinct viticultural characteristics, as well as aroma and flavor profiles, offering much to be discovered by the curious wine lover. In particular, Portugal and Italy are known for having a multitude of unique varieties but they can really be found in any region.
A mountainous northern Italian region heavily influenced by German culture, Trentino-Alto Adige is actually made up of two separate but similar regions: Alto Adige and Trentino.
Trentino, the southern half, is primarily Italian-speaking and largely responsible for the production of non-native, international grapes. There is a significant quantity of Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio and Merlot produced. But Trentino's native and most unique red variety, Teroldego, while still rare, is gaining popularity. It produces a deeply colored red wine rich in wild blackberry, herb, coffee and cocoa.
The rugged terrain of German-speaking Alto Adige (also referred to as Südtirol) focuses on small-scale viticulture, with great value placed on local varieties—though international varieties have been widely planted since the 1800s. Sheltered by the Alps from harsh northerly winds, many of the best vineyards are at extreme altitude but on steep slopes to increase sunlight exposure.
Dominant red varieties include the bold, herbaceous Lagrein and delicate, strawberry-kissed, Schiava, in addition to some Pinot Nero.
The primary white grapes are Pinot grigio, Gewürztraminer, Chardonnay and Pinot blanc, as well as smaller plantings of Sauvignon blanc, Müller Thurgau. These tend to be bright and refreshing with crisp acidity and just the right amount of texture. Some of the highest quality Pinot grigio in Italy is made here.