C——–L: The Hidden Vineyard Name
The dash between C and L on the wine label isn’t a whimsical artistic choice by a bored winemaker. Instead, it serves to conceal the name of the vineyard, CAMPILL, the home vineyard of the Pranzegg estate, which has been in Martin Gojer’s family for generations. Due to recent regulations regarding South Tyrolean vineyards, Martin can no longer print this name on his label unless the wine contains Cabernet Sauvignon, a variety planted by a dominant player in the South Tyrolean wine world. This decision, backed by regulatory authorities, suggests that the vineyard's identity hinges on this Bordeaux variety—a stance Martin Gojer subtly critiques with the dash.
In contrast, Martin cultivates 50-year-old vines of Vernatsch (Schiava), from which he produces what many consider one of the best red wines of the region. The vineyard, primarily composed of porphyry and sandy weathered soils, is north-facing, which positively influences the ripening process. The Vernatsch here represents a family of varieties, including Schiava Gentile (Rotvernatsch) and Schiava Grigia (Grauvernatsch), each contributing unique characteristics.
Martin harvests and ferments these varieties together. After a six-week maceration, the wine is aged in used oval and conical wooden barrels for 10 months, followed by additional aging in cement vats and wooden barrels to achieve its final balance.
Style
C——–L is a remarkable expression of Vernatsch, light, agile, and subtle yet deep, dense, and complex. Red berries and floral notes dominate the aroma. A fine acidity enhances the soft, warm structure, guiding the wine directly to the palate. Those noticing parallels with Pinot Noir aren’t mistaken.
Data Sheet
- Grape Variety: Rotvernatsch (Schiava Gentile) and Schiava Grigio (Grauvernatsch)
- Vineyard: Campill, northwest-facing at approximately 400 meters
- Fermentation: Spontaneous | wild yeasts, 6-week maceration
- Aging: 10 months in oval and conical wooden barrels, followed by 12 months in oak or cement
- Filtration: None
- SO₂: < 50 mg/l
- Closure: Natural cork
- Alcohol: 12%
- Serving Temperature: 16-18°C
- Optimal Drinking Window: Now – 2030
- Content and Price per Liter: 0.75 l/(€32.37/l)
- Maxime: All winemakers listed by Vinonudo work with compost, organic fertilizers, and natural preparations, avoiding herbicides, pesticides, and synthetic fertilizers.
