Alto Adige's exceptional quality shines through with nine Platinum awards for white wines at DWWA 2026, highlighting its growing global reputation.
Nestled amidst the breathtaking Dolomites, the Alto Adige region of northern Italy made waves at the 2026 Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA) by clinching an impressive nine Platinum awards, all for white wines. This remarkable achievement placed it above renowned wine areas such as Tuscany and Piedmont, marking a significant moment for a region that’s begun to assert its dominance in the international wine scene.
Factors such as climate change have shifted attention towards altitude as a vital asset for vineyards. The cool nights that follow warm days at higher elevations are crucial for preserving the acidity and freshness in the fruit, a characteristic that was clearly reflected in the award-winning wines of Alto Adige.
Quartz as a Cornerstone
A standout performer in the DWWA 2026 was Cantina Terlano, which scooped five of the nine Platinum awards with wines that showcased a variety of styles, ranging from age-worthy Pinot Bianco to elegant blends. The foundation of Terlano's successful wines lies in the unique quartz porphyry soils, rich in silica. As explained by Martina Tammerle from Terlano, these soils are low in nutrients, which helps to produce wines with a distinctive minerality and impressive ageing potential.
Among the highlights was Cantina Terlano's Quarz Sauvignon, aptly named after the quartz that defines the region’s terroir. Another notable wine was the Rarity 2013, a Pinot Bianco acknowledged for its youthful character despite being over ten years old. This win signals a broader recognition for South Tyrol's capability to produce world-class white wines, elevating its status on the global stage.
Kerner: A Signature Grape
In a particularly noteworthy achievement, Cantina Valle Isarco won the first-ever Platinum for a varietal Kerner with their Aristos Kerner 2024. While Kerner remains relatively unknown outside of this region, it has become a symbol of local identity. Armin Gratl, the managing director, emphasized that the grapes thrive in steep vineyards at altitudes between 850 and 950 meters, capturing the distinctive alpine characteristics that define the varietal.
The accolade for the Aristos Kerner not only brings attention to the varietal itself but also highlights the complexity and depth that this small valley can yield. Gratl noted the wine's precise and energetic profile, which resonated with the judges and showcased the equitable relationship between grape and terroir.
A Fusion of Characteristics
At Cantina Tramin, the legacy of Gewürztraminer is celebrated with the release of their Platinum-winning Stoan 2024, which embodies the essence of its location. This blend of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Blanc, and Gewürztraminer was designed to reflect the dual climate influences that shape the wines of Alto Adige.
Günther Facchinelli from Cantina Tramin shared insights about how the combination of Mediterranean warmth and Alpine freshness is pivotal to the identity of their wines. The Stoan's name, derived from the local term for stone, pays homage to the rocky soil that nurtures these varietals. Judges noted the wine's refreshing finish, capturing a brisk mountain breeze with every sip.
This narrative of high-quality wine was echoed across both larger estates and boutique producers like Prackfol, whose Sandl 2020 garnered a Platinum award, emphasizing the meticulous care and patience rewarded by the mountainous terroir.
Building a Global Reputation
As producers within Alto Adige experience a sort of renaissance, the sentiment is shared among them that the region is finally receiving the acclaim it deserves. Girlan's Curlan Chardonnay Riserva 2022, for example, clinched a Platinum award, thanks to the unique volcanic soils at an elevation of around 500 meters. Sales director Marc Pfitscher believes that this recognition is only the beginning for Alto Adige to build a stronger international identity.
Looking ahead, Pfitscher acknowledged that the key to maintaining this momentum lies in consistency. By prioritizing quality and character in their wines, producers aim to earn lasting recognition from global consumers. The recognition from DWWA 2026—nine Platinums, all for whites—firmly establishes Alto Adige in the global wine community.
DWWA 2026: Top Alto Adige Wines
Cantina Terlano, Quarz Sauvignon 2024
Platinum, 97 points
A vibrant expression featuring kiwi, passionfruit, and fresh herbs, intertwined with a silky oak structure and a lingering smoky finish. Alcohol: 14%
Cantina Terlano, Rarity 2013
Platinum, 97 points
A uniquely youthful wine with notes of acacia, fennel, and red apples complemented by almond bitters and herbal zest. Alc: 14%
Cantina Terlano, Terlaner I Primo Grande Cuvée 2023
Platinum, 97 points
Rich in fresh flowers and tropical fruits, this wine layers oak beautifully, culminating in a lime peel finish. Alc: 14%
Cantina Tramin, Stoan 2024
Platinum, 97 points
A harmonious blend rich in florals and peach flavors, celebrated for its mountain breeze freshness. Alc: 13.5%
Cantina Valle Isarco, Aristos Kerner 2024
Platinum, 97 points
A wine demonstrating precision and complexity, noted for its freshness and chalky nuances. Alc: 14%
Girlan, Curlan Chardonnay Riserva 2022
Platinum, 97 points
A sophisticated wine with tropical notes, creamy textures, and vibrant acidity that ensures a lasting impression. Alc: 14.5%
Prackfol, Sandl 2020
Platinum, 97 points
A mature Pinot Bianco highlighted by Alpine herbs and a flinty edge, culminating in a refined and long finish. Alc: 14%
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