Alto Adige achieved remarkable success at the 2026 Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA), claiming nine Platinum medals, all for white wines. This performance made it the standout region in Italy, surpassing renowned areas like Tuscany and Piedmont during a time when warmer climates are less suited for ideal wine production.
This mountainous region, known for its stunning Dolomites, has been gaining attention as climate change shifts conditions in favor of colder climates. Alto Adige’s altitude allows for the preservation of acidity, freshness, and aromatic complexity in its wines, particularly as warm days transition into cool nights.
Among the highlights was Cantina Terlano, which won five of the nine Platinum awards, showcasing a variety of styles. The winery’s success is attributed to the unique quartz porphyry soils that promote minerality and low yields. Their Quarz Sauvignon was among the top winners, alongside their ageable Rarity 2013 Pinot Bianco.
Another significant achievement was Cantina Valle Isarco’s Aristos Kerner 2024, the first Platinum awarded to this varietal, highlighting its potential in expressing the region’s alpine characteristics. Here, Kerner thrives in steep hillside vineyards, reflecting the vibrancy and richness of its environment.
Cantina Tramin also made waves with their Stoan 2024, a blend of key local grape varieties that personifies the balance between Mediterranean warmth and Alpine freshness. The winemaking practices focusing on terroir expression contributed to the region’s growing reputation for quality wines.
The results from the DWWA illustrate that Alto Adige is on the rise, with a strong potential for international recognition. The wines from this region are not only distinctive but also showcase the unique attributes of the mountainous environment they hail from.
For a full account of the award-winning wines, refer to the DWWA 2026 results and see how these reflect the evolving landscape of Italian wine.
Decanter World Wine Awards
Alto Adige Wine Region
Cantina Terlano
Cantina Valle Isarco
Cantina Tramin