Nals Margreid Galea Vernatsch Schiava – Wines From Alto Adige Wine #8

100% Schiava from Alto Adige, Italy.

SRP of $23 and available for as low as $19.99. Sample received courtesy Cornerstone Communications for review purposes.
From the winery:

“This red wine forms part of the extensive Schiava family, and is distinguished by its characteristics which result from its cultivation on the outstanding Galea Vineyard.

Low yields, some vines of more than a hundred years and rigorously selected grapes guarantee the production of a wine with a convincing quality potential. This Schiava is typified by appealing colour, and is pleasant in smell and aroma.

An adaptable accompaniment to all dishes, but especially appropriate to be served with traditional South Tyrolean specialities.

13.0% Alcohol”

We’re well into our series on the Wines of Alto Adige but today’s wine is the first Schiava we’ve sampled. Schiava (Ski-ah-vah), also known as Vernatsch or Trollinger, is a variety indigenous to Alto Adige. In fact, it is believed that it has grown in this area since the Middle Ages! Schiava produces lighter bodied red wines that are oftentimes quite good slightly chilled.

Other wines in the Wines From Alto Adige series:

• 2010 Nals Margreid Penon Pinot Bianco
• 2009 Manincor Lagrein Rubatsch
• 2010 Erste + Neue Weissburgunder-Pinot Blanc
• 2010 San Pietro Lagrein
• 2011 Castelfeder 15 Pinot Grigio
• 2010 Colterenzio Weisshaus Pinot Bianco
• 2009 Castel Sallegg Lagrein Riserva
• 2011 Nals Margreid Galea Vernatsch Schiava
• 2010 Tramin Lagrein
• 2010 Tiefenbrunner Turmhof Lagrein

The 2011 Nals Margreid Galea Vernatsch Schiava is a little tight upon pouring, but soon reveals wonderful fruity and earthy aromas plus a little spicy vanilla. It tastes light, easy to drink and downright delicious. Nice strawberry and raspberry flavors plus a bit of spice combine with a good acidity and some continuing earthy notes from the bouquet. The finish is very long with more fruit and light spice notes. This wine might be even better on day 2 and while it is excellent at room temperature it is at its best slightly chilled. Fabulous! See a listing of local retailers selling this winehere.

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