Teroldego: The King of Trentino Wines

Teroldego, known as the "King of Trentino wines", is a red wine with an unmistakable character, appreciated both in Italy and abroad. Grown mainly in the Piana Rotaliana, in the heart of Trentino, this native vine has its roots in medieval history. In this article we will explore its origins, organoleptic characteristics, culinary pairings and some typical recipes in which Teroldego is the protagonist.

The medieval origins of Teroldego

The roots of Teroldego date back to the Middle Ages, a period in which wine had a fundamental economic importance in the Trentino region. Documents dating back to 1300 testify that Teroldego was used as a payment for tributes to local lords, making it one of the most prized vines in the area.

The name "Teroldego" could derive from "Tiroler Gold" (gold from Tyrol), a clear reference to its commercial value. Another hypothesis traces the name back to "tirelle", an ancient method of growing vines. Regardless of the exact etymology, Teroldego quickly became a highly sought-after wine not only in Trentino, but also in neighboring Italian regions and Austria.

During the 19th century, phylloxera, a parasite that devastated vines, severely affected Teroldego cultivations. However, thanks to the commitment of Trentino winemakers, the vine was saved and began to thrive again. The recognition of the Teroldego Rotaliano DOC in 1971 represented a fundamental step in its rebirth, confirming the high quality and uniqueness of the wine.

The characteristics of Teroldego wine

Teroldego is a wine that immediately strikes for its intense ruby ​​red color with purple reflections. Its aromatic profile is rich and complex: notes of red fruits such as cherry, blackberry and blueberry are perceived, accompanied by spicy and mineral nuances, typical of the Piana Rotaliana terroir.

On the palate, Teroldego is soft and enveloping, with well-balanced tannins and good freshness. In older wines, tertiary aromas such as chocolate, tobacco and leather emerge, giving further depth and complexity. This wine is particularly versatile and lends itself both to young consumption and to long aging.

Pairings with Teroldego

One of the most appreciated aspects of Teroldego is its ability to adapt to different types of dishes, thanks to its structure and its aromatic richness. Here are some perfect pairings:

Red meat: Teroldego pairs beautifully with steaks, roast beef, lamb and grilled meats.

Game: game dishes, such as wild boar, roe deer and duck, find an ideal companion in Teroldego.

Mature cheeses and cured meats: speck, smoked hams and Trentino mountain cheeses are perfect with a glass of Teroldego.

Pasta with robust sauces: game ragù, mushroom-based sauces or intense cheeses enhance the characteristics of the wine.

Typical recipes with Teroldego

In addition to being an excellent pairing wine, Teroldego can be the protagonist of various recipes. Here are two typical Trentino dishes in which this red wine stands out:

Beef stew with Teroldego

This traditional Trentino dish involves marinating beef in Teroldego wine along with onions, carrots, and spices. The slow cooking allows the meat to absorb all the flavors of the wine, creating a rich and tasty stew.

Ingredients: beef, Teroldego wine, onions, carrots, celery, spices.

Method: Marinate the beef in Teroldego for at least 12 hours, then cook over low heat with the vegetables and spices until the meat is tender and succulent.

Risotto with Teroldego

A refined yet simple dish that combines the strong flavor of Teroldego with the creaminess of risotto. Ideal to serve with mature cheeses.

Ingredients: Carnaroli rice, onion, Teroldego wine, vegetable broth, butter, Grana Padano.

Method: Toast the rice with the onion, blend with the Teroldego and cook with the broth. Stir in butter and Grana Padano for a creamy consistency.

Teroldego is a wine that combines history, territory and flavours in a unique way. From its birth in the Middle Ages, to its rebirth in the 20th century, up to the present day, it has been a symbol of excellence for the Trentino region. With its rich aromatic profile and its versatility in pairings, Teroldego is a wine to discover and enjoy, both in combination with meat and game dishes, and as the main ingredient in typical recipes.

Try our highly selected organic Teroldego. Find it HERE