The Colterenzio winery, located in northern Italy in the autonomous region of Alto Adige, was founded by a group of daredevil enthusiasts in 1960.
Its creators, leaving work at one of the oldest wineries, decided to start their own business, heading for quality. And they succeeded.
A small factory, initially served by three dozen people, today has more than three hundred employees, and produces excellent wines, popular among connoisseurs.
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Features of local winemaking
The Italian region, also known as South Tyrol, was once part of the Austrian Empire, which could not but be reflected in the traditions of viticulture.
Many drinks have more in common with European ones than with traditional Italian ones, and the names are usually presented in two versions.
Most of the territory is occupied by mountain slopes and hills: vineyards are often located at a steep angle, which does not bother experienced local winemakers at all.
Cultivation conditions are specific, but favorable for the rapid growth and development of vines:
The proximity of the Alps and Lake Garda leave their mark on the Mediterranean climate – hot days give way to cold nights, frequent winds bring freshness and desired moisture.
Soils are characterized by high saturation with water and humus.
A large number of hours of sunshine ensures the ripening of fruits.
Grapes are grown by two methods: classical (with the help of pergolas) and modern trellis method. In winter, short pruning of vines is practiced to improve the quality of the crop.
Plant “Colterenzio” (German name – “Schreckbichl”) is considered one of the youngest wine cooperatives in Alto Adige.
However, this does not at all prevent him from producing worthy drinks, using in the production process old, centuries-old technologies, combined with innovative ideas and experiments. The company is located near the village of Cornaiano.
More about Pfefferer
One of the interesting examples of local products is the dry white wine Pfefferer.
The name of the drink sounds unusual only for native Italians, but for German-speaking Tyroleans, this option is in the order of things.
In translation, the word “Pfefferer” means “pepper”, which is consistent with the characteristics of the wine.
Pfefferer belongs to the classic varietal drinks with a rich, elegant bouquet.
It is made from the Golden Muscat variety, which has a spicy, bright character.
Grow grapes in heavy sandy soils.
The aroma of ripe fruits combines the soft freshness of fruits and piquant, spicy notes.
The future wine is fermented in steel vats at a temperature of 18 ° C for several months.
The color of the wine is golden with a subtle transition to green.
The taste is noble, dense, slightly oily. Fruity (melon, pear, citrus) tones and freshness of meadow herbs are clearly felt.
The finish is long, with a touch of sharpness and light minerality.
The drink is good at a young age, the shelf life of wine is no more than two years, and the alcohol content is 12,5%.
How to drink Pfefferer
The drink goes well with spicy snacks and light fish dishes.
Ideal as an aperitif.
Pfefferer is served chilled: the optimum temperature is 10 ° C.
Relevance: 23.09.2018
Tags: Wine and vermouth, Wine brands