Franz Gojer St. Magdalener Sudtirol-alto Adige 2021 750ml

The 2021 St. Magdalener from Franz Gojer represents a captivating expression of one of Alto Adige's most charming and historic wine styles. From the steep hillsides above Bolzano, where the indigenous Schiava grape has been cultivated for centuries, comes this delightfully fresh and aromatic red that captures the essence of Alpine winemaking. Franz Gojer, working with old vines on some of St. Magdalener's best sites, has crafted a wine that honors tradition while appealing to modern palates seeking lighter, more elegant reds.

The wine displays a brilliant, translucent ruby color that immediately signals its light-bodied character. The nose is wonderfully aromatic and inviting, offering a bouquet of wild strawberries, red cherries, and rose petals, enhanced by distinctive Alpine notes of violet, white pepper, and fresh herbs. What makes St. Magdalener special is its unique aromatic profile – there's an almost ethereal quality with hints of cotton candy, almond blossom, and crushed stones that speaks to both the variety and terroir. The overall impression is one of freshness and vitality.

On the palate, this St. Magdalener delivers pure drinking pleasure through its combination of fruit purity and refreshing lightness. The texture is silky and almost weightless, with very fine tannins that provide just enough structure to frame the delicate fruit. Flavors of wild strawberry, cherry, and cranberry dance across the palate, accompanied by notes of white pepper, dried roses, and herbs. The wine's vibrant acidity creates a sense of energy and lift that makes it incredibly refreshing. Despite its light body, there's surprising complexity and length.

Franz Gojer's approach emphasizes preserving Schiava's natural delicacy and aromatics. The traditional pergola training system, essential for Schiava in this region, ensures optimal ripening while maintaining freshness. Gentle winemaking with minimal extraction and aging in neutral vessels preserves the variety's essential character. The result is a wine that feels both timeless and contemporary – a perfect expression of Alto Adige's unique wine culture.

The finish is clean and persistent, with lingering notes of red fruit and flowers that invite another sip. This is the ultimate food-friendly wine, perfect with traditional Alto Adige cuisine like speck and cheese, but equally delightful with lighter fare or enjoyed on its own. Its low alcohol and refreshing character make it ideal for lunchtime drinking or warm weather enjoyment. St. Magdalener can even be served slightly chilled to enhance its refreshing qualities.

For those seeking an alternative to heavy, powerful reds, this Franz Gojer St. Magdalener offers a delightful revelation – proof that wine doesn't need concentration to deliver complexity and pleasure.