Caldaro (Kaltern) and its wines

Caldaro, or Kaltern in German, is a charming wine village located in the autonomous province of Bolzano, in the heart of theAlto Adige / Südtirol. It stands close to the eponymous Lago di Caldaro (Kalterer See), which helps to create a an ideal microclimate for viticulture: Mediterranean in its temperatures, but Alpine in its altitude and its winds.

Caldaro is famous for its wine "Kalterersee", a light, fruity red made from Schiava (Vernatsch), a symbol of Alto Adige conviviality. But there is no shortage of excellence among the mineral whites from Pinot Bianco, Sauvignon, Gewürztraminer and the more structured reds from Lagrein and Pinot Nero, grown in the highest hillside areas.

What is the Caldaro wine district?

Caldaro lies along the The Alto Adige Wine Route and is an integral part of the Alto Adige DOC appellation, in particular in the subzone:

• Alto Adige Lago di Caldaro DOC (Kalterersee DOC) → for wines made from Schiava produced around the lake.

The area stretches between 220 and 600 m above sea level, on slopes facing south and south-east, with soils made up of quartz porphyry, limestone and clay.

The cooperatives and independent producers of the area are among the most renowned in Trentino-Alto Adige for agronomic care, sustainability and consistent quality.

Characteristics of the Wines of Caldaro

Colour

• Reds (Schiava): Pale, transparent ruby red.

• Reds (Lagrein, Pinot Nero): More intense ruby red, with purple reflections.

• Whites: Bright straw yellow in the Pinot Bianco and Sauvignon.

Aromas

• Fruity: Cherry and strawberry in the Schiava wines; red fruit and plum in the Pinot Nero; green apple, peach and citrus in the whites.

• Floral: Violet, dog rose in the light reds; white flowers and elderflower in the Sauvignons.

• Spicy and Mineral: Herbaceous, almond and wet stone notes in the high-altitude whites.

Palate

• Light and Fragrant: In the Kalterersee wines from Schiava, ideal for carefree drinking.

• Fine and Structured: In the hillside Pinot Nero and Lagrein wines.

• Taut and Mineral: In the whites, often vinified in stainless steel to express freshness and varietal purity.

Typical Grape Varieties of Caldaro

Black Grape Varieties

• Schiava (Vernatsch): Traditional, fresh, fruity.

• Lagrein: Darker, spicier and more powerful.

• Pinot Nero (Blauburgunder): Elegant, suited to the highest altitudes.

White Grape Varieties

• Pinot Bianco (Weißburgunder): Dry, fruity and mineral.

• Sauvignon Blanc: Aromatic, with vegetal and citrus notes.

• Gewürztraminer: Rich and fragrant, made in dry or medium-sweet versions.

Why Choose a Wine from Caldaro?

A wine from Caldaro is perfect for those looking for freshness, authenticity and sense of place. The Kalterersee DOC are ideal for everyday, versatile drinking, while the more ambitious whites and reds reflect Alto Adige precision and craftsmanship, perfect with cheeses, local cured meats, white meat, vegetarian dishes and lake fish.