Vini Alpini

This high altitude Italian wine region has an important military geopolitical history and this area was added to Italy’s boot after WWI. The region has an early religious history too as it was the pilgrimage route from Northern Europe to Rome, the heartbeat of Christianity.

The main highway from Southern Alto Adige (Trentino) to Northern Tyrol going into the Austria borders includes scenic views of majestic mountains, quaint valley towns, perched ancient castles, and cool climate vineyards on rolling hills. The autostrada’s high bridges give the passenger a bird’s eye view of a quick slice of local vibes. We have stopped in many of these historic towns and absorbed their unique infused culture. 

This region of Alto Adige is also named Trentino, also named Sudtirol (German)

One stop along the scenic journey is Castello di Avio located around Avio, Trentino

In the area of Avio, Trentino, southern Alto Adige, is a prestigious winery. It was an honor to have met the owner; he even gave me a jar of their homemade jelly honey. Yummy!!! Tenuta San Leonardo was featured in Decanter wine magazine.

This region of Italy has always been one of my favorites because I respect their lively unpredictable climate, infused teutonic culture, food & wine; Under the Austrian Sun. The Dolomites are UNESCO and Trento is known for producing world recognized Trento DOC sparkling wines. Heading north in the Alto Adige wine region goes deeper beyond the Dolomites and into the Italian Alps; Alpini.

Another quaint town around Alto Adige is the medieval town of Rovereto. ​As a child, the musician prodigy Mozart performed in this town. Walking through town, there was a pleasantly echoed piano playing softly throughout streets of Rovereto. 

This area is known for their light bodied red wine from the Marzemino grape. Zona del Marzemino produces still, frizzante and grappa wines. A chilled glass of Marzemino during the Summer months while relaxing on Lago di Garda enjoying Italia la Viva is just about right. 

While visiting Rovereto, make sure to check out the Museo Storico Italiano della Guerra. 
​The Museum is situated in the 15th Century Castle of Rovereto.

Heading north within the Alto Adige wine region takes you into Südtirol (German) also known as South Tyrol.

​One year we traveled around Alto Adige traveling to Bolzano for Calici di Stelle to explore the wines coming out of this wine region. Every year on August 10th,  across Italy’s cities, towns, villages and neighbourhoods, the locals commemorate their ‘Calici di Stelle’ (Goblets/Challis of the Stars). The night of the shooting stars, wine is celebrated in conjunction with their patron Saint Lan Lorenzo. Lorenzi Nacht Calici di Stelle.

​One of Bozen’s historical past includes Ötzi the Iceman. Remember back years ago, both Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie had tattoos honoring the discovery of a human from the Copper Age.

The next Italian northern town enters the Südtirol/ South Tyrol region. The heavily Austrian influence is the charming town of Chiusa (Italian word) / Klausen (Austrian word). Yes, that is a swing bridge

​Umbrella Town - umbrella sky project

Foods & Wine

We have eaten pizza many times from up, down and across the Italian boot, and their local practice is to eat pizza with a fork and knife continental style.

When we approach these narrow roads, bridges, tunnels, etc..., frankly, I am very nervous. At times I think we may get stuck, but my optimistic hubby always replies, "No worries, we can make it through".
​See there is light at the end of the tunnel.