This advertising content was produced in collaboration with our partner, Santa Margherita USA/Kettmeir.
Nestled in the foothills of the Dolomites lies Alto Adige, Italy’s northernmost winegrowing region. With its Alpine climate and large diurnal temperature ranges, Alto Adige has become well known for producing elegant, aromatic wines. Within this region, on the banks of Lake Caldaro, Kettmeir winery has been producing exceptional wines since 1919.
From the beginning, founder Giuseppe Kettmeir knew the land was special, able to produce refreshing, mineral-driven wines that are distinctly of Alto Adige. Over decades of hard work, the winery evolved to incorporate technology and innovation alongside traditional winemaking practices. They have since developed a specialized portfolio of terroir-driven wines, while doubling down on their commitment to be ecologically responsible by employing strict water conservation practices, significantly reducing the use of chemical herbicides, and a plan in place to abandon harsh chemicals completely by 2023.
In their latest release, Kettmeir highlights the grapes of Alto Adige, using careful vinification techniques to develop the unique characteristics of each wine. Both the Pinot Grigio and the Pinot Bianco are fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks then aged on the lees to enhance the body and balance of each wine. The medium-bodied Pinot Grigio offers an elegant, citrus-fruit flavor balanced by fresh acidity and a long, mineral finish. The Pinot Bianco has an intense bouquet of green apple and floral notes; the palate shines through with ripe stone fruit, crisp acidity, and striking minerality.
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The Müller Thurgau is defined by its intense aromas and a palate of wild flowers, white peach, and herbal notes. This is achieved through exceptional winemaking talent; the wine undergoes fermentation in stainless steel tanks after a short period of skin maceration that adds structure, aroma, and color.
As always, Kettmeir’s wines demonstrate exceptional winemaking, while translating the unique, Alpine terroir found in Alto Adige. Now, new packaging, which includes new labels and more traditional Burgundy-shaped bottles, translates some of the region’s incredible biodiversity and the need to preserve the area’s rare species—and Kettmeir’s promise to do just that.
A line of hawks is now seen flying across the labels, acknowledging the importance of these rare birds to Kettmeir’s vineyards. The biodiversity in Alto Adige is a sign that a vineyard is healthy. The area surrounding Kettmeir’s South Tyrolean vineyards is home to a rare hawk species that flock to Lake Caldaro for its fertile nesting area. The birds fly over the vineyards, keeping other predators away, and serve as a sign to the winemakers that the ecosystem is thriving.
After more than 100 years of production, Kettmeir’s new packaging brings their respect for the land to the forefront, highlighting the fact that their land is more than a home—it’s at the heart of every wine, and future of the winery.
