The South Tyrolean Wine Road is one of Italy’s most iconic destinations for wine and culinary tourism. Stretching from Nalles through the rolling hills of the Oltradige and the Bassa Atesina all the way to Salorno, it winds through historic wine villages, sun‑drenched vineyards and some of the most scenic landscapes in the Alps.
Viticulture in South Tyrol has ancient roots. As early as 500 B.C., the Greeks introduced winemaking knowledge to the region, while the Romans later expanded vine cultivation throughout the Alpine valleys. Thanks to its mild climate, with around 1,800 hours of sunshine per year and ideal temperatures during the growing season, South Tyrol offers perfect conditions for vineyards thriving up to 1,000 metres above sea level.
Today, about 90% of the annual harvest—roughly 600,000 hectolitres—is transformed into high‑quality DOC wines, a testament to the region’s long winemaking tradition.
White Wines of South Tyrol
More than 45% of South Tyrol’s vineyards are dedicated to white grape varieties, a share that continues to grow. The most widely cultivated are:
- Pinot Grigio (Ruländer)
- Pinot Blanc
- Chardonnay
Together, they account for nearly 60% of the region’s white wine production.
South Tyrol is also renowned for producing exceptionally fresh and aromatic wines from varieties such as Gewürztraminer, Silvaner, Müller‑Thurgau, Riesling, Sauvignon, Veltliner and Kerner—wines that stand out in Italy for their character, minerality and elegance.
Red Wines of South Tyrol
For over a century, South Tyrol has cultivated both indigenous and international red grape varieties. The native stars are:
- Schiava – light, fruity and unmistakably South Tyrolean
- Lagrein – full‑bodied, intense and increasingly appreciated worldwide
Alongside them grow classic varieties such as Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, now perfectly acclimatised to the region’s microclimates.
Today, just under 55% of the total vineyard area is planted with red grapes. While Schiava remains the traditional favourite, South Tyrol’s “big reds”—from structured Lagrein to powerful Cabernet—continue to gain international recognition.
WeinSafari – A Journey Through South Tyrol’s Wine Culture
Throughout the year, visitors can join the WeinSafari, an immersive wine experience that leads through vineyards, wineries and traditional cellars. The tour includes guided tastings and themed menus designed to introduce guests to the flavours and culture of South Tyrol’s wine regions.
Wine & Bike – Explore the Wine Road on Two Wheels
For an even more engaging experience, Wine & Bike offers four scenic cycling routes along the South Tyrolean Wine Road. These itineraries combine gentle cycling with wine tastings, panoramic views and cultural highlights. Purchases made during the tour can even be delivered directly to your hotel.
Pinot Blanc Route – Eppan
Bike: Old Eppan train station → Girlan → Schreckbichl → Montiggler Lakes → Eppan Berg → St. Pauls → return
Highlights: historic manors, castles, churches, vineyard landscapes
Wine: guided tasting in a local winery
St. Magdalener & Lagrein Route – Bolzano
Bike: Bolzano city centre → Rentsch → Gries → return
Highlights: St. Magdalener hill, historic wineries, private vineyards
Wine: tasting in a traditional winery
Kalterersee Wine Route – Caldaro
Bike: Rottenburger Square → Oberplanitzing → Lake Kaltern → return
Highlights: lake views, charming village centre, vineyard panoramas
Wine: winery visit with guided tasting
Gewürztraminer Route – Tramin
Bike: Tramin village centre → St. Jakob Church in Kastelaz → return
Highlights: historic centre, parish church, sweeping vineyard views
Wine: tasting in a local winery
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