Franz Haas Pinot Nero DOC Alto Adige

Tasting Notes from the Curator

Franz Haas Pinot Nero DOC Alto Adige captures the quintessence of Alto Adige Pinot Noir with a sophisticated aromatic profile. Its initial aromas of vibrant maraschino cherries and ripe raspberries brim with freshness atop deeper layers of blueberries and slightly tart plums. This fruit complexity interlaces harmoniously with floral nuances of violets and lavender, imparting a delicate fragrant quality.

The wine’s character further deepens with spicy overtones of cloves and cinnamon, providing warmth, counterbalanced by an herbal undertone of bay leaf and spruce resin that lends an earthy aroma. Unique elements such as the sweet marzipan note and a hint of rosehips underscore its intricate bouquet.

On the palate, there is an intricacy of ripe cherry, raspberry, and blueberry flavors melding with a rich undertone of plum jam. A spice-infused backbone of cloves and cinnamon enhances this complexity, while the earthier flavors anchor the wine to its terroir. Bittersweet notes promote an engaging balance, progressing to a regal, creamy finish reminiscent of roasted figs and blood orange peel.

Elegance extends into its texture; medium-bodied with a silky mouthfeel, the wine exhibits tightly woven tannins and a refreshing acidity that elevate its sophisticated stature.

Pairings & Suggestions

The Franz Haas Pinot Nero DOC Alto Adige demonstrates its versatility beautifully across diverse culinary landscapes. While its elegant and nuanced palate pairs seamlessly with roast duck adorned with a cherry or orange glaze, drawing upon the wine’s rich berry aromas, its acidity gracefully complements herb-crusted pork loin, cutting through its richness delightfully.

For the adventurous, simmered venison in juniper berries or braised wild boar with aromatic herbs is an invitation for the wine’s earthy and spicy notes to arch harmoniously. As the wine glides easily towards dishes like grilled herb-marinated chicken, and roasted turkey with cranberry sauce, it embodies a festival of flavors celebrating its aromatic bouquet.

In the realm of seafood, honey-mustard glazed grilled salmon and garlic buttered shellfish are plates tailored for this Pinot Nero—each mouthful teasing out the wine’s floral nuances. For the vegetarian palate, a creamy mushroom risotto enriched with truffle oil coaxes out the redolent earthiness and complexity inherent in the wine.

Cheese, especially that of the nutty Parmigiano-Reggiano or creamy Gruyère, unfurls the wine’s fruity tapestry just as a Berry Tart or Chocolate Mousse enhances its finishing notes delicately.

A Legacy of Innovation and Elegance

The Franz Haas winery, a beacon of ingenuity in the wine production realm since 1880, is renowned for its unwavering dedication to pioneering techniques and profound respect for Alto Adige’s terroir. Spanning eight generations, it continues to blend tradition with innovative practices, which is vividly reflected in its premium Pinot Nero DOC Alto Adige.

Their vineyards, poised amid lofty altitudes, experience diverse microclimates offering distinct conditions for varied grape cultivation. This intricate terroir is a signature component that enriches their wines with outstanding flavor profiles.

Ever forward-thinking, Franz Haas embraces screwcap closures since 2018, a groundbreaking practice in Italy aimed at preserving aromatic elegance and freshness. The infusion of art into their branding, with labels designed by Riccardo Schweizer, melds their winemaking excellence with cultural vibrancy, offering a multi-dimensional sensory experience. This symphony of heritage, artistic endeavor, and modern techniques propels Franz Haas into the upper echelons of viniculture, epitomizing a legacy both bespoke and enduring.

Storage Instructions

Store Franz Haas Pinot Nero DOC Alto Adige in a cool, dark place at temperatures between 10-15°C. Keep humidity levels around 60-70% and avoid direct sunlight. Lay bottles horizontally to ensure the cork remains moist.