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Red grape

Schiava

Also known as Vernatsch

Saved references

The familiar Alto Adige name for lighter, fresh reds, especially Lago di Caldaro and Santa Maddalena. It offers a useful contrast with deeply coloured Lagrein.

Aromatic palette

fresh red fruit · subtle spice

Read the structure.

acidityUsually fresh
tanninUsually modest
bodyLight to medium; district matters
alcoholOften moderate

What could you confuse it with?

Vernatsch is the regional German name. Schiava is a local naming group with several forms, so avoid treating every Schiava designation as one precise botanical synonym.

Origins & family

Regional roots

Alto Adige and neighbouring Alpine vineyards. Schiava is also a family name: Schiava Grossa corresponds to Trollinger.

In the vineyard

Bolzano-area slopes and the Lake Caldaro district provide different local expressions.

Regional expressions

Italy

Trentino-Alto Adige

The familiar Alto Adige name for lighter, fresh reds, especially Lago di Caldaro and Santa Maddalena. It offers a useful contrast with deeply coloured Lagrein.

Structure

Light to medium; district matters; usually fresh.

At the table

Start around 14–17°C for dry red wine, adjusted to body and maturity; chill rosato more.

Explore Trentino-Alto Adige

Cellar & service

Winemaking & development

Usually approached as a fresh red, although fuller and matured wines also exist.

Service & ageing

Start around 14–17°C for dry red wine, adjusted to body and maturity; chill rosato more.

Pairing logic

Match tannin and weight to charcuterie, roast meat or savoury dishes; account for sauce and sweetness.