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South Tyrol’s wine scene, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Dolomites, is one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. We explore the region’s unique blend of Italian and German influences, local grape varieties, and alpine winemaking traditions. From crisp mountain whites to hearty cuisine and postcard-perfect landscapes, discover why this lesser-known corner of Italy deserves a spot on your wine travel wishlist.
Summary
We welcome back Untold Italy's favorite wine experts, Olivia Windsor and Andrea Mitti Rua of Italian Wine Tales, for this episode on wines of the Dolomites and. South Tyrol region. They share the unique traditions, flavors, and hidden gems of South Tyrol’s vineyards. Learn what to sip, where to visit, and what to eat along the way!
What you'll learn in this episode
- Olivia and Andrea return with updates, including welcoming their first baby
- The pride Italy has in its wine's biodiversity and regional variety
- The stunning scenery and mixed Italian-German culture of South Tyrol and the Dolomites
- Key wines of the region include Pinot Bianco, Lagrein, Gewurztraminer, Teroldego, and more
- Alongside reds, whites and rosés, be sure to try sparkling Trento DOC and sweet Vino Santo Trentino – perfect with local charcuterie
- Most wines are small-batch, artisanal, and rarely exported
- Visiting wineries offers a hands-on, intimate experience
- Walk the Strada del Vino (wine path) from Bolzano to visit an array of top producers
- Recommended stops include Abbazia di Novacella, Kellerei Bozen and Nals Margreid
- Scenic highlights include Alpe di Siusi, where you’ll find everything from adventurous hikes to gentler walks and even relaxing horse and cart rides through the alpine meadows.
- Extra local treats: apple juice, craft beer, and traditional festivals
- Winery visits often include beautiful gardens, views, restaurants, and even art displays
Timeline Overview
- 01:58 Italy's pride in biodiversity
- 07:07 Trento's tremendous sparkling wine – Teroldego
- 11:58 The Alto Adige Wine Road
- 15:17 Abbazia: Historic winery and abbey
- 18:59 Savory treats and wine pairings
- 20:59 Hiking and leisure in the Dolomites
- 23:39 Stress-Free wine touring in the region
About our guests – Olivia Windsor and Andrea Mitti Rua
Olivia writes a blog called Livguine, named after her love for pasta and her nickname Liv. She has explored the country south to north, working in agriturismi and organic wineries before settling in Turin, Piedmont for a time after meeting a local Piemontese Andrea. They are both now based in Rome and Olivia hosts various Untold Italy Tours throughout the year in Piedmont, Liguria, Tuscany Capri and Puglia.
Follow Liv and Andrea here
Italian places, foods and concepts mentioned
Places
- Trento – city in northern Italy, in the Trentino-Alto Adige region
- Bolzano – city in South Tyrol, near the border with Austria and capital of Alto Adige
- Abbazia di Novacella – an abbey in South Tyrol, of the Augustinian order, producing wine since the 1100s
- Alto Adige Strada del Vino – the wine route from Bolzano around producers of the Alto Adige area
- Kellerei Bozen – a cooperative winery of 224 wine-making families
- Nals Margreid – winery with vineyards shared around 160 hectares owned by 140 wine-growing families
- Merano – spa town in South Tyrol
- Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm – a Dolomite plateau and the largest high-altitude Alpine meadow in Europe. Located in Italy’s South Tyrol province i