Way up on the cuff of Italy's boot, on the border of Austria, lies the mountainous region of Alto Adige. The high altitudes and colder climate seem inhospitable to agriculture, but many cool climate grape varietals thrive here, including Sauvignon Blanc.

Colterenzio means ‘terrible hill’ in Italian (its German name Schreckbichl means exactly the same). It’s an appropriate name, given the dramatic scenery of the Dolomite Mountains. This is the Alto Adige if you speak Italian, or the Sudtirol in German. (You’re as likely to hear German spoken as Italian, as the border has changed a bit over the years.) Viticulture in the area goes back at least to Roman times.*

In 1960,  28 winegrowers from the area joined forces and founded the Colterenzio winegrowers’ co-operative. Today it’s been recognized as one of the best wineries in Italy, as evidenced by its numerous awards.*

Colterenzio specializes in single-varietal wines. The combination of high altitude and cool climate makes for brilliant and intense white wines. Their efforts in the vineyard include using organic fertilizers and biological pest control. Coupled with modern technology such as temperature-controlled fermentation,  these practiced bring forth bright, generously fruited wines with bright, balancing acidity.*

The 2024 Colterenzio "Prail" Sauvignon has aromas of elderflowers, acacia blossoms, passion fruit, and lime zest. The expressive palate abounds with flavors of white currants, ripe Honeydew melons, peaches, and limes laced with spring herbs and flinty minerality. The finish is crisp and vibrant, driven by zesty acidity and citrus echoes.

Check out the press!
93 points, Wine Enthusiast:
"Savory depth meets white grapefruit cut and citrus blossom in this lifted and intense Sauvignon. The palate plays a brilliant game of tag: lemon-lime brightness chases fresh herbs and cut grass before chalky minerality changes the rules. Vibrant acidity keeps the energy flowing, proving sometimes serious wines know how to have fun."

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 13.5%
Producer Name: Clterenzio
Old World / New World: Old World
Country of Origin: Italy
Region: Alto Adige
Vintage: 2024
Grape Varietals: Sauvignon Blanc
Wine Style: Dry white wine
Pack Size: 750ml
Container Style: Glass Bordeaux-style bottle
Closure Style: Cork