In 1904, thirteen growers founded the first wine cooperative in Trentino.
Against the imposing backdrop of the Dolomites, generations of families have since dedicated themselves to viticulture and the preservation of their cultural landscape. Despite their rich and successful history rooted in the spirit of innovation – which has also embraced international vines such as Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon – the conscious decision was made to promote the local varieties.
The Prince of Wines from Trentino
Teroldego, for instance, can be traced back to the Middle Ages in Trentino, with the first documented mention in 1383. ‘It is a late-ripening variety, and our partner growers cultivate it primarily on the Rotaliana Plain (Piana Rotaliana) between the villages of Grumo San Michele all'Adige, Mezzocorona and Mezzolombardo.
It finds ideal conditions there,’ Mezzacorona oenologist Maurizio Maurizi tells us. This also explains the sobriquet ‘Rotaliano.’ According to legend, the name ‘Teroldego’ has its linguistic origin in the Viennese court, where the grape variety was referred to as ‘Tiroler Gold’ (‘Tyrolean Gold’).
This evolved into ‘Tiroldico’ and eventually became Teroldego. In Trentino itself, it is known as the ‘Prince of Wines’ – the most famous red wine of Trentino.
Gentle & fiery
Mezzacorona highlights Teroldego in its portfolio through various interpretations.
For example, the Teroldego Rotaliano DOC boasts the wonderful typical spiciness of dark forest berries, aromas of liquorice and chocolate, with an elegant, invigorating structure. A lively wine that pairs excellently with robust roasts, grilled meat or mature hard cheeses. The next level is represented by the Teroldego Rotaliano Superiore DOC Riserva.
This is vinified exclusively in the finest years, selecting only the finest grape material from the top locations of Piana Rotaliana – ‘Fron,’ ‘Rauti,’ ‘Camorzi’ and ‘Sottodossi.’ This meticulous care results in an expressive wine with attractive berry fruit, notes of dark chocolate and toasty nuances, expressing a charmingly noble style. Here, the vitality of the terroir – gentle yet fiery – meets the centuries-old knowledge and passion of the Mezzacorona winegrowers.
The ideal blending partner
When it comes to teamwork, Teroldego can be relied upon, as illustrated in the blend Dinotte. It marries happily here with Merlot and another indigenous variety, Marzemino, to create a profound wine with multi-layered berry fruit and robust structure. Marzemino contributes an animated and approachable character, while Merlot and Teroldego add the right balance of spiciness, body and finesse. Teroldego has been identified as a parent of several grape varieties – in the first generation including Lagrein and Marzemino – and in the second generation also contributing to storied varieties like Pinot Noir or Syrah. It is a piece of wine history that has been preserved thanks to the commitment of Mezzacorona, enriching the wine world with a touch of individuality.
