Ideal conditions for Bordeaux varieties

Cortaccia is a historic wine-growing village in the south of Alto Adige. The total acreage in the greater area around Cortaccia comprises more than 305 ha. The vineyards range from elevations of 220 m above sea level to 900 m above sea level. In the higher ones mainly white grape varieties are cultivated, whilst in the lower ones up to a limit of 350m  above sea level there are excellent conditions for Bordeaux varieties such as Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. 

 
The vineyards are in part very steeply sloped and they generally face east and south east, benefitting from morning sunlight. The soils with a high percentage of clay are most suitable for Merlot, whilst Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon grow best on gravel soils. As a result of the great exposure to sunlight it is possible to achieve full physiological ripeness. In turn, the wines are complex and have great aging potential. 

The blind tastings of the Cortaccia Rossa events of the last years demonstrated that Bordeaux wines from this area can hold their own both nationally and internationally. 

The potential of these sites has not yet been fully reached. About a third of the 305 ha planted to vines in Cortaccia have the necessary conditions for growing Bordeaux varieties. The vineyards actually planted to Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, make up only 55 ha. Due to the success in recent years and the high quality of the wines it is, however, foreseeable, that the Bordeaux varieties will increase considerably.