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History: grape pips from the 5th century BC have been found in a pot along with bronze remains showing drinking sessions in Moritzing and other localities around Bozen.
Vines were most probably introduced into the Upper Etsch Valley in the 1st century BC, which would make South Tyrol the oldest wine growing area in the German speaking part of the continent. South Tyrol was part of the Roman Empire, and from the Roman historian Plinius, we know that the wine was kept and delivered in wooden barrels. During the Middle Ages, the monks revived the wine industry, as many German dioceses bought vineyards in South Tyrol to supply their dioceses in Germany. Vineyards suffered a big set back in the 19th century as mildew and leaf drop were transported from America. At the turn of the century, the vine pest found its way into the vineyards and caused serious damage. The acreage was reduced to 9,000 hectares from 10,000 hectares. In the 20th century, apart from diseases, the main reduction in wine production was due to the competition of apple trees and urbanisation after the 2nd World War. Today there are 5,000 hectares of vineyards in South Tyrol that are well looked after, and the South Tyroleans make sure that this acreage is not used for anything else.
Climate and Soil: the reputation of the South Tyrolean wines on the Italian and international market is due to the conscientious care of the vineyards, the use of quality vines, the first class winery work, and last but not least, the extraordinary soil and climatic conditions. As in all wine areas of the world, the landscape leaves its mark on the character of the wine. Due to the climate, the majority of the vineyards can be found on the warm slopes of the Etsch and Eisack Valleys between Schlanders and Salurn and Bozen and Brixen. The pergola and the arched cane systems used to grow the vines, mean that sunshine and warmth are optimal, and they give the landscape its attractive character.
