Harvest 2020

New vintage with great Potential, reduced harvest quantities, and first prognoses. The wine harvest in Alto Adige officially got rolling on August 26 with the varieties at the lower elevations. Just as in every year, the white wine varieties of Pinot Blanc, and Chardonnay started things off, followed by Sauvignon Blanc and Gewürztraminer. We had the main harvest in Alto Adige with the first days of September. This was followed by the red wine varieties, beginning with Pinot Noir. The varieties Merlot, Lagrein, and Cabernet Sauvignon will bring the harvest to a close.

The calm weather conditions up to a few days before harvest and the relatively early blossoming with abundant rainfall above all else at the higher elevations laid the foundation for a promising 2020 vintage. The weather has had a positive effect upon the quality of the grapes. The last weeks and days before the harvest were decisive. Good ventilation and a quick drying of the grapes was important. Alto Adige’s winegrowers were happy with warm, sunny days and cool nights so that the aromas could develop well.

According to the first prognoses, we can look forward to a promising new vintage. Hannes Pfitscher, our winemaker, is pleased about the fresh Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir wines that are filled with character. He sees great potential above all else in the loose-berried bunches from the higher elevations. Klaus Pfitscher, our Senior boss, shares Hannes' outlook. He says that the ideal conditions exist this year for an outstanding harvest. With the white wines at higher elevations, there have rarely been such good basic conditions shortly. The grapes are clear, and they have rarely been so flavorful.