Alois Lageder, Schiava 2016, Sudtirol – Alto Adige, Italy

Tasting Note: Whenever summer comes, I seek out Schiava from Aldo Adige including one like this bottle with generous, ripe, red fruit along the midpalate, depth of flavor and low 12% alcohol — ideal for backyard porch enjoyment.

Medium-intensity ruby in color, this wine has a medium-plus-intensity nose of black plum, raspberry puree, red currant, red cherry and blossom.

On the palate the dry, medium-plus-bodied Schiava delivers, medium-plus-intensity red-fruit flavors suggested on the nose supported by medium acidity and velvety, medium tannin.

There is balance between the fruit and acidity and layered complexity running throughout the entire length of the taste.

Serve slightly chilled to bring out the red-fruit and sharpen the acid structure.

Bottle Note: The Alois Lageder family has been making fine wines for more than 150 years in Alto Adige, Italy’s most northern wine producing region, nestled in the Dolomite Foothills, in the heart of the Alps. Alois Lageder is committed to sustainable, holistic working methods in both the vineyards and the cellars. His wines reflect the high standard quality that governs these procedures. They are made exclusively from the classical grape varieties that typify the Alto Adige region. A broad spectrum of cultural, artistic and creative activities, including commissioned artist-designed labels, characterize the Alois Lageder winery.