Wines Alto Adige Nals Margreid - Baronessse Passito - 2016

Viniou Reviews

Nals Margreid’s Cuvée Baronessse Passito 2016 is an enticing sweet white wine from the Alto Adige (Haut-Adige DOC) in the far north of Italy. Crafted from carefully selected, late-harvested grapes that have been left to dry, this Passito style accentuates the natural sugars and glycerol, giving a rich and luscious mouthfeel. The precise blend used for this cuvée is often dominated by local aromatic varieties such as Moscato Giallo or Gewürztraminer, occasionally complemented by other native or international white grapes. The 2016 vintage enjoyed a cool and stable growing season, promising a balance between opulent sweetness and refreshing acidity, while vinification in small barrels tends to add layers of complexity, melding candied fruit, honey, and delicate floral notes.

The Alto Adige region, nestled among the Dolomite mountains, is defined by its dramatic alpine landscape. Vines are often planted at elevations between 300 and 900 metres, benefitting both from abundant sunshine and the cooling influence of the mountains. Soils are predominantly gravel, sand and weathered rock, ensuring excellent drainage and contributing to remarkable freshness and minerality in the wines. This territory boasts a unique cultural tapestry, blending Italian and Austrian influences — reflected in winemaking traditions that value precision and finesse.

For food pairing, the Cuvée Baronessse Passito truly shines alongside creamy blue cheeses such as Gorgonzola Dolce or regional specialties like Südtiroler Apfelstrudel, where the wine’s sweetness and vibrant acidity play off the richness and spice of the dish. It also pairs beautifully with foie gras, almond tarts, or fresh fruit desserts, elevating an elegant end to any meal.

Serve this Passito well chilled, ideally between 8-10°C, to preserve its aromatic vivacity while allowing the lush palate to express itself fully. Decanting is not necessary, but allowing the wine to rest in the glass will reveal further nuances and depth.