Thursday, 30 January 2025

Bolzano's Winemaking Tradition 

Bolzano, a city of wine, has an ancient history rooted in the Roman Empire when the first settlements in the valley were established. Today, about 700 hectares of vineyards are cultivated within the city limits, with additional vineyards extending into the surrounding areas. Many of these vineyards are nestled behind the walls of historic farmsteads and monasteries.

The hilly areas around Bolzano are particularly suited to cultivating Vernatsch Schiava and Santa Maddalena. For centuries, vineyards have covered the slopes of Santa Maddalena, Santa Giustina, and Coste, reaching nearly 700 meters in altitude and giving the steep hills a distinctive charm. Santa Maddalena and Lagrein, the two native red wines of the city, are the true icons of this heritage.

The Bolzano Wine Exhibition at Castel Mareccio

This rich winemaking tradition is showcased at the city's oldest wine event: the Bolzano Wine Exhibition, now in its 98th edition. As always, it will be held at Castel Mareccio, one of the most fascinating and expressive locations in Bolzano.

The exhibition will feature around forty of the province’s most renowned wineries, along with well-known small producers boasting long-standing traditions. Acclaimed chefs, connoisseurs, sommeliers will also be present.

Wine enthusiasts and aspiring experts will have the opportunity to taste over 180 labels from the wine regions of Bolzano and its surroundings, including Oltradige, Bassa Atesina, Valle Isarco, Valle d’Adige, Merano and Burgraviato.

Image: Wine Exhibition 2023, Courtesy, Luca Managlia