Ep 269 - Alto Adige Explained | Italy's Alpine Wine Region, Indigenous Grapes & Wine Travel

In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina explores Alto Adige (Südtirol), one of Italy's most exciting wine regions, with Eduard Bernhart, Director of Alto Adige Wines . If you're looking to learn about wine, discover new wine regions, understand indigenous wine grapes, or plan an unforgettable wine travel adventure, this episode is your complete guide to one of Europe's most distinctive Alpine wine destinations. From indigenous wine grapes like Schiava and Lagrein to internationally renowned varieties including Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewürztraminer and Pinot Noir, this episode uncovers how altitude, geology, climate and culture combine to create truly distinctive wines. Along the way, Janina and Eduard discuss mountain vineyards, Michelin-starred restaurants, cooperative winemaking, sustainable viticulture and why Alto Adige deserves to be at the top of every wine travel itinerary. Whether you're a curious wine lover, studying wine, planning a wine holiday or simply looking for your next favourite bottle, this wine podcast is packed with expert insights, practical tasting knowledge and plenty of inspiration for your next wine adventure. Shownotes 03:28 – Alto Adige explained — why this multicultural Alpine wine region blends Italian and Austrian influences unlike anywhere else. 05:16 – Alto Adige vs Südtirol — why the region has two official names and how bilingual culture extends to its wines. 06:49 – Schiava explained — Alto Adige's indigenous red grape, perfect for elegant, lighter-bodied and chilled wines. 09:19 – Santa Magdalena DOC — why up to 15% Lagrein can be blended with Schiava and how this shapes the wine's style. 10:55 – Lagrein explained — Alto Adige's powerful indigenous red grape with ageing potential and outstanding food-pairing versatility. 13:11 – Santa Magdalena wines — discovering one of Alto Adige's most historic wine villages and Janina's tasting impressions. Wine Tasted: Pfannenstielhof St. Magdalener Classico 2023 14:04 – Elena Walch — how one of Alto Adige's pioneering wineries helped establish the region's international reputation. Wine Tasted: Elena Walch, Vigna ‘Castel Ringberg’ Lagrein Riserva 2022 ( € 43 Direct for Winery ) 15:09 – Why Alto Adige produces some of Italy's finest white wines — altitude, Alpine climate, diurnal shifts and meticulous vineyard work. 17:15 – Why Bolzano is one of Italy's warmest cities — sunshine, porphyry rock and the surprising local climate. 18:39 – Alto Adige's extraordinary soils — volcanic porphyry, Dolomite limestone and glacial deposits creating remarkable terroir diversity. 20:51 – Vineyard altitude explained — how elevation influences white and red wine grapes across the region. 22:53 – Michelin-starred dining — why Alto Adige has one of the highest concentrations of Michelin-starred restaurants in Europe. 24:50 – What does "Vigna" mean? Understanding single-vineyard designations and why they matter. 27:24 – Alto Adige Pinot Grigio — why the region produces textured, mineral-driven expressions that redefine the variety. 30:27 – The cooperative system — how small family growers work together to maintain exceptional quality and sustainability. 33:42 – Tasting Nals Magreid , Hill, Pinot Grigo 2024 ( Soho Wine Supply £21 ) 34:27 – Alto Adige Sauvignon Blanc — a distinctive expression balancing ripeness, minerality, freshness and elegance. Wine Tasted: <a href='https://www.kellereimeran.it/e