Abbazia di Novacella, a historic winery in Alto Adige, Italy, is expanding its innovative Insolitus line with two new releases: a partially de-alcoholized Kerner named “Minus 2023” and a Lagrein Rosé, the first of its kind for the winery.
The Insolitus line, established in 2020, serves as a platform for experimentation and innovation, allowing Abbazia di Novacella to explore new winemaking techniques while honoring its traditional roots.
“The latest labels of the Insolitus Line represent absolute novelties for Abbazia di Novacella and are positioned at the opposite extremes of innovation and tradition, but always within the spirit of experimentation,” explains Werner Waldboth, sales director of Abbazia di Novacella. “Minus is our first partially de-alcoholized wine, which we decided to obtain using the Kerner variety, a historic grape in the Bressanone basin. It is a new type of wine that we wanted to experiment with because it perfectly interprets the innovative spirit represented by the Insolitus Line. We believe it can meet the needs of those who are looking for light wines with a reduced alcohol content, but who do not want to give up quality and typicity.”
“At the opposite end of the spectrum, on the other hand, is the decision to introduce the first Lagrein Kretzer,” continues Werner Waldboth. “Lagrein is a historic grape variety that has been present in the vineyards of the Abbey of the Bolzano basin since the 17th century. It was time for us to experiment with this version, which is an integral part of South Tyrolean tradition: it is a gastronomic wine, particularly versatile at the table, which we believe, in this case as well, will appeal to consumers who are looking for both lightness and finesse.”
Minus 2023: A Lighter Kerner with Uncompromising Quality
Minus 2023 is a partially de-alcoholized wine made from Kerner grapes grown in the Bressanone basin at an altitude of 650-800 meters. Following fermentation in stainless steel tanks, the wine’s alcohol content is reduced from 13.5% to 10.5% through the process of reverse osmosis. It then rests for another six months in steel containers before bottling and release.
Despite its lower alcohol content, Minus 2023 retains the typical characteristics of Kerner, showcasing a straw yellow color and fruity aromas of peach and apricot, complemented by a mineral finish. Its exceptional drinkability makes it an ideal choice for warm summer days.
Lagrein Rosé: A Touch of Tradition with a Modern Twist
The Lagrein Rosé Alto Adige DOC 2023 is crafted from Lagrein grapes, a classic and indigenous Alto Adige variety, cultivated in the Bolzano basin at an altitude of approximately 260 meters. After a gentle maceration on the skins for just 12 hours, the wine matures for eight months in stainless steel tanks before bottling.
This Lagrein Rosé is characterized by an intriguing coral hue, refreshing notes, a light structure, and delicate aromas reminiscent of berries. It joins the winery’s existing Lagrein offerings – the Lagrein from the Classic line and the Riserva from the Praepositus line – further expanding Abbazia di Novacella’s range of rosé wines.
Limited Availability and Exclusive Distribution
True to the Insolitus line’s ethos, both new releases are produced in limited quantities: 2,600 bottles for the Minus 2023 Partially De-Alcoholized Wine and 2,600 for the Lagrein Rosé Alto Adige DOC 2023. These wines will be distributed exclusively through the Horeca channel.
With these new additions, Abbazia di Novacella demonstrates its commitment to innovation and its ability to produce high-quality wines that cater to evolving consumer preferences.
Via Abbazia, 1 | 39040 Novacella (Bz)
Tel. 0472 836189