Everything About Schiava Grape
"skee-AH-vah" 
Schiava Description
Origin: Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, Italy
History: Schiava, also known as Vernatsch in German-speaking regions and Trollinger in Germany, is a historic red grape variety primarily grown in the Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region of northern Italy. The name 'Schiava' is derived from the Italian word for 'slave,' possibly referencing the traditional practice of training the vines to wooden stakes or pergolas. The grape has been cultivated since at least the 13th century and is known for producing light, aromatic red wines.
Appearance: Medium-sized, dark-skinned berries forming compact clusters.
Growing Traits: Schiava is a vigorous and productive vine that thrives in well-drained soils and cooler climates. It is often trained on overhead pergolas, a traditional method that protects the grapes from excessive sunlight and sudden weather changes. The grape is early to mid-ripening and is known for its resistance to certain diseases, making it well-suited to the alpine conditions of Alto Adige.
Food Pairing Schiava's light body and bright acidity make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with charcuterie, light pasta dishes, and grilled fish. The wine's subtle fruitiness complements Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly dishes featuring aromatic herbs like basil and lemongrass. Its low tannin content also makes it suitable for pairing with spicy foods, as it won't exacerbate heat.
Body
Sweetness
Tannin
Acidity
Alcohol
Light-bodied with a delicate structure, offering a fresh and approachable profile. Typically vinified dry, though some off-dry styles exist, especially in rosé wines. Low tannin levels, contributing to its smooth and soft mouthfeel. Medium to high acidity, providing freshness and vibrancy to the wines. Moderate alcohol content, generally ranging from 10% to 12.5%, depending on the winemaking style.
Strawberry 
Raspberry 
Rose 
Cotton candy 
Lemon Schiava wines are characterized by their sweetly aromatic profile, often reminiscent of cotton candy and roses. On the palate, they typically exhibit flavors of fresh strawberries and raspberries, accompanied by a hint of citrus like lemon. The wines are light-bodied with low tannins and medium to high acidity, making them refreshing and easy to drink.
Regions
![[object Object] Region](/regions/italy.png)
Italy
•Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol
![[object Object] Region](/regions/germany.png)
Germany
•Württemberg
Notable Wines and Producers
Santa Maddalena Classico
•Franz Gojer
•Cantina Bolzano
Kalterersee Classico Superiore
•Elena Walch
•Cantina Kaltern
Schiava FAQ
Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, Italy
Schiava has a body level of 2 out of 5. Which means that Schiava is Moderate to Light bodied.
Schiava has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Schiava is Dry.
Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, Italy
Schiava is grown in Italy (Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol)Germany (Württemberg).
Schiava wines are characterized by their sweetly aromatic profile, often reminiscent of cotton candy and roses. On the palate, they typically exhibit flavors of fresh strawberries and raspberries, accompanied by a hint of citrus like lemon. The wines are light-bodied with low tannins and medium to high acidity, making them refreshing and easy to drink.
Schiava's light body and bright acidity make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with charcuterie, light pasta dishes, and grilled fish. The wine's subtle fruitiness complements Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly dishes featuring aromatic herbs like basil and lemongrass. Its low tannin content also makes it suitable for pairing with spicy foods, as it won't exacerbate heat.
Schiava wines are characterized by their sweetly aromatic profile, often reminiscent of cotton candy and roses. On the palate, they typically exhibit flavors of fresh strawberries and raspberries, accompanied by a hint of citrus like lemon. The wines are light-bodied with low tannins and medium to high acidity, making them refreshing and easy to drink.