🥃 Südtiroler Grappa

Südtiroler Grappa (Grappa dell'Alto Adige) is an EU geographical indication for grappa from the autonomous province of Bolzano. It is made from pomace of wine produced there from local grapes, and fermentation, distillation, reduction of strength, ageing, bottling and labelling take place only in the province. The strength is from 40% vol. EU protection dates from 12 June 1989.

Methanol is limited to 900 g/hl of pure alcohol, that is, less than the general 1000. The pomace is distilled in continuous apparatus or batch stills, with direct steam, direct fire, or indirect steam with water, separating the first and last fractions, below 86% vol. For dilution, drinking water from the province itself is preferred.

Unlike most regional grappas, the technical file here makes no provision for aromatic plants: the drink is not flavoured. Only sugar up to 20 g/l and caramel for grappa aged for at least 12 months are permitted. The name may be written in German, Italian or both.

The technical file explains the link to the place as follows: pomace of red and white wines is available in good balance, the vapours of low-strength spirit retain many aromatic compounds, and the swings of usually low temperatures favour fine aromas during ageing in wood. The applicant is the association of craft distilleries of Alto Adige.

Why this matters to you. The name guarantees local grapes and the whole cycle in South Tyrol, as well as no herbs or fruits in the composition. "Vecchia" means at least 12 months in wood in the province, "riserva" 18. A variety may be stated if other varieties make up no more than 15% by weight. The WHO reminds us that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption.