From: Alto Adige, Italy

Varietal: Schiava

Tasting Notes: Bright ruby in colour with a delicate hint of cherry on the nose. On the palate, it is harmonious and elegant due to naturally mild acidity and tannin with a pleasant bitter almond flavour on the finish. An elegant, fruity red wine with good lengths.

Pairing: Widely versatile due to its Pinot-like character. It won't overwhelm fish, but will saddle up gracefully to a plate of charcuterie and fromage. It'll also work wonders alongside dishes that have components of ginger, basil, and other aromatic herbs (lovers of SE Asian cuisine, check this out). 

Schiava is the Italian name for a number of grape varieties known as Vernatsch by the German speakers of Alto Adige, or Südtirol as they would call it, or Trollinger in the German region of Württemberg, where they are widely grown. These grape varieties are unrelated but similar in taste! Schiava, which means ‘slave’ is thought by some to indicate Slavic origins.