Schiava
Rooted in the history of Alpine viticulture, Schiava is a native variety grown in Trentino-Alto Adige since time immemorial and mentioned as far back as the 14th century. Its name stems from the Latin expression cum vineis sclavis, that is, “with enslaved vines”, then «Schiava», to indicate the ancient practice of growing the vine by fastening it to a rigid support to guide its orderly growth in rows. The leaf is rounded, trilobed with irregular teeth. In autumn, it takes on a yellow colour with reddish spots. The bunch is medium-sized, with a long stalk and very pruinose thin-skinned grapes.The pulp is juicy with a simple flavour.
Among the different typologies, the Schiava Gentile stands out, alongside the Schiava Grossa and Schiava Grigia, often used together, with a small part of Lagrein, in the production of traditional wines such as the «Lago di Caldaro» (Kalterersee). Historically one of the most widespread varieties in the area, Schiava is today valued for its authenticity and immediate expressiveness. It produces fresh and harmonious red wines that successfully represent a long wine-making tradition with balance and modernity.
