Zweigelt (2023) - Radoar
In the heart of the Val d'Isarco, the Radoar winery has given life to a fascinating story with its Zweigelt, a grape variety whose roots lie far from Alto Adige. Created in 1922 by Professor Fritz Zweigelt in Austria, this cross between Blaufränkisch and St. Laurent has found a second home in the Italian mountains. Radoar, with its centuries-old tradition, has interpreted the variety masterfully, adapting it to the unique microclimate of the region. Here the vines grow on mineral-rich soils, kissed by the sun and caressed by cool Alpine breezes, creating an unbreakable bond between land and wine.
Zweigelt (2023) - Radoar
Type: Red Wine
Area: Italy, Trentino-Alto Adige, Val d’Isarco
Appellation: Alto Adige DOC
Grape variety: Zweigelt
Vintage: 2023
Winery: Radoar
Alcohol: 13%
The appellation: Alto Adige DOC
Alto Adige DOC (Südtirol DOC in German) is one of the most prestigious and best-known appellations in Italy for the production of top-quality white and red wines. Established in 1975, this DOC covers the entire winegrowing territory of the autonomous province of Bolzano and forms a mosaic of micro-areas and grape varieties, characterised by varying altitudes, wide temperature swings and complex soils. The strength of Alto Adige DOC lies in its extraordinary variety and in its ability to express freshness, elegance and aromatic precision, in both whites and reds.
Find out more about Alto Adige DOCWhat to eat with Zweigelt
Who makes it: Radoar
Radoar Hof is a mountain farmstead that stands out for its winemaking tradition, set in one of the most striking areas of Alto Adige. Founded with the aim of making the most of the grapes grown on the sunny mountain slopes, Radoar Hof has turned a passion for viticulture into an art, producing high-quality wines for almost 50 years. The vineyards, at an altitude of between 750 and 900 m above sea level, are among the highest planted areas in the region. Here the black and white grapes, certified organic for over 25 years, are grown using sustainable methods, giving rise to wines that are fresh, light and fruity, but also noble and assertive.
Read more about RadoarThe vine of Zweigelt
Zweigelt
Zweigelt is a black grape variety originally from Austria, created in 1922 by crossing Blaufränkisch and St. Laurent. This variety has grown in popularity thanks to its versatility and its ability to express terroir in a distinctive way. Zweigelt is particularly appreciated for its fruity, aromatic wines, which can vary considerably depending on the winemaking techniques and the climate.
Find out moreZweigelt: the Val d’Isarco area
Val d’Isarco
The Isarco Valley (Eisacktal in German) is the northernmost winegrowing area in Italy, in the north-eastern part of Alto Adige, between Bolzano and Bressanone.
Find out more about Val d’IsarcoClimate: Alpine
Altitude: Mid Altitude (500-800 m above sea level)
Soil: Limestone / chalk
Geographical setting: Valley
Profile of Zweigelt
Primary aromas: Cherry, Ripe red fruit
Secondary aromas: Pepper, Spice
Tertiary aromas: Leather
Tasting notes: A young red wine with notes of red fruit and spice, typical of the Zweigelt variety.
| Sulphites | yes |
| Body | Medium |
| Acidity | Medium-high |
| Tannin | Medium |
| Sweetness | Dry |
| Finish | Media |
| Colour | Ruby red |
| Clarity | Clear |
Winemaking methods used for Zweigelt
Stainless steel winemaking for freshness and aromas
Stainless steel winemaking is a modern, versatile technique, particularly prized for producing fresh, aromatic and lively wines. Thanks to the use of stainless steel tanks, fermentation takes place in a neutral, controlled environment, preserving the primary characteristics of the grape variety and of the terroir as fully as possible. This approach makes it possible to obtain wines that clearly express their varietal personality and a pleasant lightness. What is Stainless Steel Winemaking? Stainless steel winemaking involves the use of stainless steel tanks during alcoholic fermentation and, often, during ageing as well. These vessels guarantee a hygienic, controlled environment, free from outside influences that might alter the aromatic profile of the wine. What is more, precise temperature control helps develop fresh, fruity aromas, avoiding oxidation or unwanted fermentations. Advantages of Stainless Steel Winemaking Preserving freshness: the primary aromas of the grape variety remain intact. Temperature control: it allows slow, steady fermentations, bringing out the aromas and the structure. Aromatic purity: stainless steel adds no outside flavours, guaranteeing an authentic product. Stages of Stainless Steel Winemaking 1. Harvest and Pressing The grapes are picked at the right degree of ripeness and gently pressed to obtain a clean, high-quality must. 2. Settling the Must The must is clarified to remove any solid residues, ensuring a clean fermentation. 3. Fermentation in Stainless Steel Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, with strict temperature control (generally between 10°C and 18°C for whites and rosés). 4. Stabilisation After fermentation, the wine is left to rest in the tanks to refine and stabilise, before bottling. Characteristics of the Resulting Wines Colour Whites: bright straw yellow with greenish highlights. Rosés: delicate tones of pale pink or salmon. Light reds: pale ruby red with lively transparency. Aromas Fruity: notes of citrus, peach, green apple and berries. Floral: hints of white flowers, violets or dog rose. Mineral: fresh, saline nuances, typical of certain terroirs. Taste Fresh and lively: with balanced acidity and a light body. Harmonious: perfect for drinking young and informally. Grape Varieties Ideal for Stainless Steel Winemaking White Grape Varieties Vermentino: perfect for bringing out freshness and minerality. Sauvignon Blanc: aromatic and vibrant, with citrus and tropical fruit notes. Black Grape Varieties Pinot Nero: ideal for rosés and light, elegant reds. Montepulciano: perfect for fresh, fruity rosés. Why Choose a Wine Made in Stainless Steel? A wine made in stainless steel is the essence of freshness and varietal purity, perfect for anyone looking for intense aromas, liveliness and lightness. Ideal for aperitifs, light dishes and convivial moments, these wines are a true tribute to nature and to the quality of the grapes.
Find out moreAgeing methods used for Zweigelt
In stainless steel
Ageing in stainless steel is a winemaking practice aimed at preserving the freshness, aromatic integrity and varietal purity of the wine. It is used above all for white, rosé and young red wines, but also for light, easy-drinking reds that do not require maturation in wood. Stainless steel vessels are inert and impermeable to oxygen, so they do not interact with the wine: this makes it possible to bring out the fruity, floral and mineral component of the grape and of the terroir.
Find out moreTime on the lees for Zweigelt
- No contact with the lees