Santa Maria Justina Pinot Grigio is produced for Verdoni Imports in Alto-Adige by the Loacker family. Rainer Loacker owns two estates. One is the Corte Pavone winery in Montalcino, consisting of 91 hectares, only 5 of which; planted in 1978, are dedicated to vineyards. Eventually 20 hectares will be developed. The rest are woodlands. Here Corte Pavone yields Brunello di Montalcino. The second estate, Tenuta Schwarhof, is situated near Bolzano in Alto-Adige, where traditional vines, such as Schiava and Sauvignon thrive.  Dr. Loacker’s family is renowned for the production of biscotti. He himself operates a homeopathic center called Remedia Loacker. All of Loacker’s carefully made wines are organic, biological wines.

The Vine

Pinot Grigio is a red varietal, most famous for producing white wines. It grows throughout northern and central Italy and does very well at high altitudes. It is called Pinot Gris in France, Tokay D’Alsace in Alsace and Rulander in Germany. In the Loire, it is known as Malvoise and Pinot Belrot. Planted in Oregon, New Zealand, California and Russia, this vine is revered in Hungary as the Szurkebarat.

The Wine

The altitude and position of the lofty vineyards in the foothills of the Dolomites near Bolzano account for the fresh, clean, floral aspects of this Pinot Grigio.

Although Santa Maria Justina Pinot Grigio will develop subtle nuances as it ages, we recommend it young and fresh.  Fewer than 2000 cases are available for sale in America.

Technical Facts

Characteristics: A brilliant straw color, a complex aroma of citrus and tropical fruit, a fresh, crisp, satisfying taste and a clean finish.

Grapes: 100% Pinot Grigio

Food Affinities: Appetizers, luncheon meats, fish preparations, especially shellfish.  Perfect with smoked salmon, trout, or pasta with seafood sauces.