Tiefenbrunner Entiklar, Alto Adige

Italy's northernmost region is enveloped by the Alps, whose slopes were sculpted by glaciers and mountain streams. Most vineyards lie along the few flat shoulders of the Adige and Sarca Rivers or on high terraces. Soils are based on dolomite -calcium and magnesium carbonate, and glacial or alluvial deposits of gravel, sand, or clay. Though not fertile, they are usually light and well-drained and ideal for vines. Cold winters are contrasted by summers of almost Mediterranean daytime heat, moderated by cool night breezes that waft up the valleys from Lake Garda. This temperature fluctuation heightens both flavours and aromas in the wines. Many grape varieties are of German and French lineage. The whites compare favourably with the more famous wines of Alsace and Friuli.

Wine has been cultivated at Castel Turmhof for over 300 years. The castle itself, known for its Roman Gothic fairy tale-like figures and breathtaking swan lake, has been dated back to the late 12th century. Today the Tiefenbrunner family is still fully committed to this tradition. The estate owners, Herbert Tiefenbrunner and his son Christof, produce about 700,000 bottles per year here, of which 70% are white wines and the remainder red.

The vines are grown mainly on the south-facing slopes surrounding the castle with the optimal location being selected for each grape variety. Some of the vines are trained using the traditional pergola system which contributes to the development of the fine grape aromatics. Preserving the purity of the varietal character is the principle focus of the work done in the vineyards and in the cellars.

One specially produced wine is the Müller-Thurgau "Feldmarschall von Fenner," which has been cultivated since 1972 at the Hofstatt vineyard, 1000 meters above sea level. This wine is named for Franz Philipp Freiherr von Fenner zu Fennberg, for whom the estate once served as a summer residence. Viticulture at this altitude is unique in Europe, and is possible at this site only because of the vineyard's ideal geographical orientation and specific microclimate.

The Tiefenbrunner wines regularly receive national and international awards. Outstanding tasting results, and steady, growing interest from customers and wine connoisseurs, demonstrates the dedication and profound experience of these "Entiklar winemakers".

Pinot Grigio 2010 Tiefenbrunner has consistently crafted one of our favourite Pinot Grigios. This pale straw wine shows pretty aromas of honeysuckle and white peach which delight the nose. Zingy aromas of fresh apple, pineapple and orange zest are offered on the palate, with an element of bitter almond layered into the long finish. The fruit exhibits a wonderful impression of ripeness throughout. A fragrant, mouthwatering, rich wine that maintains good poise.

Cuveé Anna 2009 (Pinot Grigio/Pinot Bianco) This shimmering greenish yellow blend possesses an intense floral bouquet with a broad array of fruit aromas. It is full-bodied but because it does not undergo malolactic fermentation in barrel, it retains wonderful acidity. The finish is long and broad. This is a complex wine that drinks well young but can be fully enjoyed after several years of storage. This cuvée makes a good companion to all sorts of starters, asparagus, seafood, or poultry as well as pork or veal dishes.

Lagrein "Castel Turmhof" 2010 In the gravelly foothills of the Italian Alps, the little known Lagrein grape produces beautiful full bodied, velvety wines supported by a lively spine of acidity. The tannins are supple and the very pure cherry flavour that the varietal is known for bursts from the glass. This wine is fermented stainless steel and matured in neutral oak to retain the pure fruit flavours. Drink now and through the next 4 years.

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All wines are available by the unmixed case to Licensees and Private Consumers, subject to availability.

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