NEW YORK, July 23, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The lazy days of summer are the perfect time to put aside your old reliables and dive into a pool of new and intriguing wines, especially those from the signature varieties of Italy’s Alto Adige - Südtirol.

This northern region volleyed between Austrian and Italian rule, giving it a unique character unlike anywhere else. Like the region’s singular nature, Alto Adige’s three indigenous grapes — Gewürztraminer, Schiava, and Lagrein — express personalities all their own.

Enjoyed throughout Italy as an aperitivo, Gewürztraminer from Alto Adige - Südtirol is highly aromatic with a round viscosity and balanced acidity that wakes up all your senses. While gewürz translates to spice, the grape also offers up floral, tropical and even herbal notes making it unlike any other grape. Get your palate ready for lobster rolls, corn, and other delicious summer fare with this multidimensional white.

Push aside Pinot for Schiava, an elegant, chill-worthy red. Ruby in color, Schiava is fruit-forward and low in tannins with an inherently easy-going profile. When the thermometer climbs, put this wine in the cooler alongside the whites and rosés for a refreshing summer sipping alternative.

A weightier counterpoint to Schiava’s ethereal nature is Lagrein: dense with ripe fruit, violet and a little kick of black pepper. This grape is defined by summer, as the sunshine and high regional temperatures (up to 104F) bring it depth and complexity. When chilly nights call for campfires and cozy blankets, grab a bottle to pair with an intimate evening with friends.

There’s no better time to explore unknown and exciting grapes that are an everyday part of the region’s drinking lexicon. For more information visit www.altoadigewinesusa.com  or join us on Facebook at Alto Adige Wine, and Instagram and Twitter at @AltoAdigeWines.

ALTO ADIGE - SÜDTIROL WINE MARKETING BOARD The Alto Adige Wine Board was formed in 1975 by a group of winemaking companies to promote and strengthen the image of the wines from Alto Adige. The promotional campaigns are implemented by IDM Südtirol/Alto Adige on behalf of the Consortium of Alto Adige Wines. The Alto Adige Wine Board is active in Italy, Germany, Austria, England, Benelux, Russia, Japan, Switzerland, and in the United States.

ALTO ADIGE WINES PRORUS MARKETING CAMPAIGN The objectives of the PRORUS campaign, co-financed by the Italian State and the European Union, are to increase overall US awareness of the DOC wines from Alto Adige, demonstrate their versatility with a wide range of foods, and showcase the diverse palette of wines that emanate from such a unique winegrowing region.

Erica Brancato erica@teuwen.com