The Teroldego grape variety appears to have arrived in Trentino from the Valpolicella, where the variety was known as Tirodola. Some suggest that the name Teroldego instead derives from “Tiroler Gold,” supporting a Tyrolean origin for this grape. However, it is certain that the name originates from a toponym: there is a locality called Teroldeghe in the municipality of Mezzolombardo, and the wine has been mentioned in numerous notarial documents since 1480. Recent DNA studies have shown that Teroldego is related to Lagrein, Marzemino, and Syrah. The Teroldego grape, the most important black-skinned variety in Trentino, has found its ideal habitat in the large flat area known as Campo Rotaliano, a stretch of plain surrounded by the Dolomites, offering unique conditions, especially in the municipalities of Mezzacorona, Mezzolombardo, and San Michele all’Adige.
In recent years, its cultivation has expanded to other areas. However, as Teroldego is highly sensitive to soil and climate conditions, it seems to thrive and produce excellent results only in its original zone. From an ampelographic perspective, the Teroldego has a large, pentagonal, and trilobate leaf. Its clusters are medium to large, elongated, and pyramidal, sometimes cylindrical, occasionally winged, and moderately compact. The berries are medium-sized, round, with a bluish-black skin that is thick, leathery, and heavily pruinose.
The Teroldego vine is characterized by high productivity, requiring strict yield control to produce quality wines. From an organoleptic perspective, wines made from pure Teroldego are dark, dense, and rich in color. Their aromas are fruity, with notes of ripe cherry, blueberry, and wild berries, supported by sweet spices, cocoa, pepper, and balsamic hints like chinotto, licorice, and rhubarb. On the palate, they are warm and broad, with good structure and intensity, enlivened by excellent acidity.
Young and simple Teroldego wines pair well with baked lasagna or tagliatelle with ragù. When more structured and aged, they are perfect with grilled meats and some game dishes.
