Brandy Style

In the glass, South Tyrolean Williams smells like a freshly cut pear: ripe, juicy, with a hint of nutmeg. It is crystal clear, at least 40 percent alcohol, and feels softer and sweeter in the mouth than its bold aroma suggests. Of all the South Tyrolean brandies, this one has the clearest profile.

South Tyrolean Golden Delicious is an apple brandy, and for it the short designation is expressly permitted: instead of apple brandy from Golden Delicious, the label may simply carry the variety's name. It tastes milder and rounder, like ripe yellow apple, with little acidity. South Tyrolean Gravenstein is its counterpart: the old summer apple brings more freshness and a more intense apple aroma.

What is a South Tyrolean Obstler? The name stands for a fruit brandy where at least 85 percent of the mash comes from apples, pears, or both; up to 15 percent may be other fruits. In South Tyrol, the designation is additionally protected as a geographical indication. Obstler tastes broader and less distinct than a single-variety brandy, since several fruits play together.

South Tyrolean Grappa, by contrast, comes from the grape and is a pomace brandy. Lagrein lends it dark, spicy notes, while white varieties like Gewürztraminer bring more floral and spice character. Unlike grappa from elsewhere in Italy, it may only contain pomace from South Tyrolean grapes that were also processed into wine within the province.

Comparing South Tyrol to its neighbors, one thing stands out above all: here, the variety takes center stage. The name tells you whether pear or apple is in the glass, and the origin is always the same—South Tyrol.