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In the South Tyrol district of Terlan wines have been grown for centuries. The sheltered hollow at the foot of the Tschöggelberg range, between 820 and 2950 ft (250 and 900m) above sea level, provides them with the perfect growing conditions.
The vineyards in the Terlan region lie on a striking red porphyry base. This is a volcanic rock with large mineral crystal deposits, known in geological terms as quartz porphyry. The living upper layer is sandy, loose and therefore porous, as well as highly heat retentive with a low level of silt. The pH value of the soil is slightly acidic. These particular soil qualities give the Terlan wines their distinctive character. The high mineral content of the soil gives the wines a particularly mineral flavour and is partly responsible for their extraordinary longevity.
Terlan’s vineyards stretch from the gentle hills of the valley bottom right up to the steep mountain slopes with their extreme growing conditions. The fact that they are south-facing guarantees a high rate of sunshine. In almost Mediterranean conditions a wide range of grape varieties are grown here and in Terlan you can also find many Mediterranean plants such as olives, pomegranates, cypresses or almond trees. The average annual temperature is 54ºF (12ºC) but during the growing season from May to September it is 65ºF (18ºC). There are between 1,800 and 2,100 hours of sunshine each year. During the ripening period warm days and cool nights ensure a high content of sugar and flavours.
The specific soil qualities and microclimatic conditions produce wines with a distinctive character typical of the region which is carefully preserved and bottled in the Terlan cellar.
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