2018 Franz Haas Pinot Grigio, Alto Adige

Lots of buttercups and daffodils on this pinot grigio. Round and spicy with a touch of apricot tart on the finish. Medium body and medium depth of flavor. Drink now.

91 points James Suckling jamessuckling.com

The Alto Adige region, known as the sud-Tirol when it belonged to neighbouring Austria, provides an awe-inspiring backdrop for grape growing. The valley is split by the Adige river and vineyards are planted on either side of the steep mountains, up to 1000 metres. Franz Haas is the third generation first-born son named Franz to run this family estate, established in 1880. The vines here reflect the challenging extremes of viticulture. Freezing winters, hot summers moderated by cool breezes from Lago di Garda and the surrounding mountains, and significant differences between day and night temperatures provide pristine fruit.

The wines are characterised by crisp fruit and refreshing acidity with real personality and ageing potential. The selection features a minerally Pinot Grigio, a delicate and refreshing Pinot Bianco and a complex Traminer with notes of rose, spice and lychee with refreshing acidity. Manna is Franz’s white blend of Riesling, Chardonnay, Sauvignon and Traminer, offering rich complexity, layered fruit and texture with a long finish. Franz’s Pinot Nero, one of the country’s finest, is delicate and perfumed with wild strawberry and raspberry notes, the palate silky and smooth.