Although a co-operative, the production level at the Cantina Valle Isarco is small, approximately 1 million bottles a year, not a lot for a co-operative that sources grapes from growers all over the Valle Isarco region. This mountainous area has a climate and topography that bequeaths the wines their unique and distinctive character. The cool climate and large diurnal temperature difference favours white wine production and yields intense aromas and high acidity. The Cantina Sociale has 130 members and produces over 20 different wines which have all been recognised for their quality in the Gambero Rosso guide. The success is due in large part to the talent and passion of the cellar master Thomas Dorfmann. Although a young co-operative the Cantina Valle Isarco is demonstrating that it is a business model that still works very well within the wine production industry. The wines are a testament to the hard work that goes in to realising the potential of one of the world's great white wine growing regions, the northern Italian Mountains.

Tasting Note: This is a beautiful wine from a region which is becoming in the words of Gambero Rosso 'an Eldorado for Italian white wine making'! Kerner is little known in the UK but offers extraordinary aromas of green apples, melons and cream. The zippy palate opens to reveal a fairly full body with peaches, apples and citrus fruits in abundance. The cool climate also shines through with a nutty and mineral complexity. Fabulous white, superb for spring and summer drinking with fresh water fish, 'salumi' or risotto with 'funghi'!

Type: Medium bodied dry white wine

Varietal:  100% Kerner

Alcohol:  13.5% abv

Vineyard Location: 600-800 metres, south-east exposure in the zones of Chiusa, Velturno, Bressanone, Funes

Soils: Nutrient rich gravel and sandy porous soil

Training System : Guyot

Yield:  90 quintals per hectare

Bottles Produced: 57,000 a year

Ratings: Listed in Gambero Rosso