Explore the Diversity and Elegance of Alto Adige Wines at U.S. Masterclasses
The Consorzio Alto Adige Wines is returning to the United States, bringing an exciting series of masterclasses that promise to highlight the unique characteristics of one of Italy’s most distinguished wine regions. These events will take place in San Francisco and Los Angeles in March, followed by seminar sessions in Chicago and Houston in June. Each masterclass offers an immersive experience into the world of Alto Adige wines, where participants can appreciate the richness of this mountain wine region, recognized for its exceptional terroirs, diverse grape varieties, and commitment to quality.
The masterclass series will kick off in San Francisco on March 23 with renowned wine educator and Master of Wine, Vanessa Conlin, leading a session titled "Alto Adige Wines Alpine Wines for Bold Plates." Set in a steakhouse, this seminar will explore the suitability of Alto Adige wines with various menu items, including seafood, light sauces, and grilled steaks. Attendees will have the opportunity to taste an array of innovative wines, featuring grapes such as Pinot Blanc, Sylvaner, Pinot Nero, Lagrein, Cabernet, and Merlot.
Shortly after, on March 25, Los Angeles will host a seminar presented by esteemed sommelier Matthew Kaner, a 2019 winner of the Wine Enthusiast's '40 Under 40' award. His presentation, "Alto Adige Timeless Wines Shaped by the Dolomites," will delve into both youthful and aged expressions of wines from the region, showcasing the aging potential and aromatic depth found in varieties like Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Nero.
The learning continues in Chicago on June 1, where sommeliers Rachel Lowe and Brandon Kerne will present two more masterclasses aimed at providing attendees with a deeper understanding of the Alto Adige wine legacy. The first session, "Alto Adige Timeless Wines Shaped by the Dolomites," will be led by Lowe, while Kerne will present "From the Dolomites to the Lone Star Plate" in Houston on June 3. These seminars exemplify the versatility of Alto Adige wines and their ability to complement a variety of dishes, from delicate seafood to rich, hearty steaks.
Eduard Bernhart, Director of the Consorzio Alto Adige Wines, states, "The U.S. is a crucial market for our wines, where enthusiasts are eager to explore Italy's most unique regions. These masterclasses provide an opportunity for us to present the elegance and diversity of Alto Adige DOC wines while showcasing the essential work of the Consorzio in promoting our members, maintaining quality, and sharing the captivating stories behind each bottle."
The masterclass series is more than just a tasting event; it actively endeavors to deepen the understanding of Alto Adige’s geography, climate, and winemaking traditions. Participants will gain insights into how the region's alpine conditions, paired with Mediterranean warmth, influence the character of its wines. Each tasting will reflect the very essence of Alto Adige DOC—its unique terroir, grape diversity, and winemaking prowess.
About the Consorzio Alto Adige Wines: Established in 2007, the Consorzio is dedicated to promoting and supporting the esteemed wines of the Alto Adige region. Despite being one of Italy’s smallest wine-producing areas, Alto Adige is celebrated for its extraordinary variety, where over twenty grape types thrive in vineyards that stretch between Mediterranean valleys and steep alpine hillsides, managed by small family wineries, cooperatives, and dedicated growers. By joining this series of masterclasses, wine enthusiasts and industry professionals alike will connect with the storied heritage and ongoing evolution of Alto Adige wines.