Lagrein Rosato, Alois Lageder 2021

Trentino-Alto Adige borders Switzerland and Austria, laying claim to a large part of the Dolomites and southern Alps – and most of Italy’s most impressive peaks. Also known as Trentino South Tyrol, it is the destination of choice for the outwards-bound in general and skiers/snowboarders in particular.

If it’s true that”Italian food” is actually the accumulation of distinct regional cuisines, Trentino’s food is the sum of its valleys. Each has its own microclimate and signature products – be it cured fish and meat, cheeses or oils. As you’d expect from its location, the food is a mixture of German and Italian traditions: goulash with cornmeal polenta; sausages served with horseradish and sauerkraut; leberknödelsuppe dumplings made from calves’ liver and herbs.

On the wine front, some of the world’s best Pinot Grigio comes from Alto Adige. You will also find Gewürztraminer and Lagrein grapes alongside the indigenous Marzemino, Nosiola and Teroldego.