Hofstätter 2024: New Cru and Bright Future with Niklas Foradori

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Tenuta J. Hofstätter unveils Pinot Nero 2022 and Gewürztraminer 2022, marking a new era with Niklas Foradori. The winery's future shines bright in Alto Adige!

The Bright Future of Tenuta J. Hofstätter

Tenuta J. Hofstätter is a name synonymous with excellence in the Alto Adige wine region. Recently, the winery has introduced two new wines: the Pinot Nero 2022 Barthenau Vigna Herbsthöfl and the Gewürztraminer 2022 Vigna Castello Rechtenthal. These releases mark a significant milestone for the winery, especially with the entry of Niklas Foradori into the family business. At just 27 years old, Niklas joins his father Martin, mother Beatrix, and sister Emma, bringing fresh energy and vision to the estate.

The winery is poised for a remarkable 2024, as it embraces a production philosophy that emphasizes the unique expression of individual vineyards. This approach has been a hallmark of Hofstätter since its inception, particularly for its flagship varieties: Pinot Nero and Gewürztraminer. The recent approval of additional geographical units by the regional wine consortium further solidifies this commitment to terroir-driven winemaking.

Exploring the Pinot Nero 2022 Barthenau Vigna Herbsthöfl

The Pinot Nero 2022 Barthenau Vigna Herbsthöfl represents a modern interpretation of this classic varietal. This wine is crafted exclusively from grapes sourced from the highest part of the Tenuta Barthenau, known as Vigna Herbsthöfl. Located at an altitude of 430 to 460 meters, this vineyard benefits from a unique microclimate that enhances the quality of the grapes.

The Pinot Nero is the result of a mass selection initiated over 20 years ago, using genetic material from Vigna Roccolo. This vineyard is the oldest "Noir" vineyard in Alto Adige, planted in 1942. The Barthenau Vigna Herbsthöfl 2022 showcases finesse and complexity, reminiscent of its predecessor, the Barthenau Vigna Roccolo. However, the greater temperature variation and the presence of calcareous gravel in the clay soil create a more vibrant and elongated palate.

This wine is characterized by its refreshing acidity and mineral backbone. It presents a lighter red hue compared to its siblings, Barthenau Vigna Roccolo and Barthenau Vigna S. Urbano. This visual cue indicates a clear direction for Hofstätter, reinforcing Mazon as the cradle of Alto Adige Pinot Nero. The Barthenau Vigna Herbsthöfl is a wine with remarkable aging potential, capable of withstanding the challenges posed by climate change.

Gewürztraminer 2022 Vigna Castello Rechtenthal: A New Chapter

Shifting focus to the Gewürztraminer 2022 Vigna Castello Rechtenthal, this wine embodies the same meticulous approach as its Pinot Nero counterpart. Previously, this vineyard produced only a late harvest version, known as Spätlese "Joseph." The Gewürztraminer 2022 emerges from an extreme cru, with slopes reaching 60%, located above the "Rio Inferno" in Termeno.

At an elevation of 400 meters, the grapes here mature slowly, benefiting from significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. Additionally, cold winds from the canyon contribute positively to the final product. This Gewürztraminer is not a departure from Hofstätter’s philosophy; rather, it aligns with the trend of producing lighter, fresher expressions of this iconic Alto Adige variety.

The Gewürztraminer 2022 showcases a sharp freshness while maintaining a rich aromatic concentration. This balance of weight and elegance is a testament to the winery’s commitment to quality. As Hofstätter continues to innovate, the Gewürztraminer 2022 Vigna Castello Rechtenthal stands as a proud representation of the region’s potential.

Niklas Foradori: The Future of Hofstätter

Niklas Foradori may not have directly influenced the creation of the new cru wines, but his presence signals a bright future for Tenuta J. Hofstätter. With an impressive resume that includes harvests in Germany, France, the United States, and South Africa, Niklas brings a wealth of experience to the family business. His passion for Pinot Nero is evident, and he is determined to carry on the legacy of his family.

After completing classical studies, Niklas pursued viticulture and enology, graduating from Geisenheim. His dedication to the craft is clear, as he aims to elevate the winery’s offerings. Martin Foradori acknowledges Niklas’s role in launching the innovative Steinbock Alcohol Free sparkling line, showcasing the younger generation’s influence on the winery’s direction.

Looking ahead, Hofstätter plans to introduce a new de-alcoholized sparkling wine made from Riesling. This wine will feature a lower alcohol content and a higher residual sugar level, making it one of the most sought-after de-alcoholized wines in Italy. As the market for non-alcoholic wines grows, Niklas Foradori is poised to make a significant impact in this segment while continuing to champion the Pinot Nero legacy.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Excellence

In conclusion, Tenuta J. Hofstätter is at a pivotal moment in its history. With the introduction of the Pinot Nero 2022 Barthenau Vigna Herbsthöfl and Gewürztraminer 2022 Vigna Castello Rechtenthal, the winery reaffirms its commitment to quality and terroir. The entry of Niklas Foradori into the family business brings a fresh perspective and innovative ideas that will shape the future of Hofstätter.

As the winery prepares for a remarkable 2024, it stands as a beacon of excellence in the Alto Adige wine region. The focus on individual vineyard expression and the embrace of modern winemaking techniques ensure that Hofstätter will continue to thrive. With a legacy built on passion and dedication, the future looks bright for Tenuta J. Hofstätter and its exceptional wines.

Photo by Yoko Correia Nishimiya on Unsplash

Source: WineMag – Wine – Hofstätter, 2024 da incorniciare: due nuovi cru e futuro luminoso con Niklas Foradori