In the center of Trentino, where family customs and winemaking expertise are interwoven, Paolo Foradori set out on a quest that would determine J. Hofstätter’s future. Everything started in 1959 when Sieglinde Oberhofer, the sole child of Luise and Konrad Oberhofer, married Paolo, the scion of a prestigious wine family. In addition to uniting two families, this union allowed the wine farms of Barthenau, Oberyngam, Unteryngram, and Oberkerschbaum to be smoothly incorporated into the revered halls of the J. Hofstätter estate.
Vineyards on Both Sides of the Adige River: A Mosaic of Terroirs
Paolo’s stewardship of J. Hofstätter began with an unprecedented acquisition of vineyards on both sides of the Adige River. This bold choice cemented the estate’s position as the only family winery in Alto Adige with such a distinctive and extensive viticultural footprint.
Paolo’s expertise in vinification was evident in the Barthenau Vigna S. Urbano Pinot Nero, a wine that significantly enhanced the standing of this grape variety not only in the Mazon vineyard but also in Alto Adige and Italy as a whole.
Martin Foradori Hofstätter: A Contemporary Icon Seizes the Reins
Under the direction of Martin Foradori Hofstätter, the son of Sieglinde and Paolo Foradori, a new chapter in J. Hofstätter’s life began in 1992. Martin brought in a period of growth and modernization that would change the course of the winery’s future. In 1998, the village’s unique feature—the cellar tower, an architectural marvel that stands quietly next to the parish church steeple—became a physical symbol of this transformation.
In the years that followed, a number of breakthroughs occurred, demonstrating Martin’s dedication to pushing boundaries. The winery’s evolution included a new wine shop, a show vineyard, and a ground-breaking addition – a cellar decorated with tasteful concrete barrels, a first for Alto Adige. The property added to its impressive collection of vineyards with Vigna Kolbenhof and the spectacular Gewürztraminer sanctuary, Vigna Rechtenthaler Schlossleiten, which sits majestically above Tramin.
Going Beyond: Mosel/Saar Riesling and Trentino Extension
Martin Foradori Hofstätter expanded the winery’s horizons beyond Alto Adige, propelled by an unwavering love for Riesling. He entered the storied Mosel/Saar wine region in 2014 and purchased premium Riesling vineyards under Weingut Dr. Fischer‘s illustrious banner.
In 2017, there was another expansion, this time into Trentino’s southern regions. J. Hofstätter, one of the biggest family wineries in Alto Adige with exceptional and distinctive vineyard sites, was further cemented to be one after acquiring Maso Michei.
Origin Philosophy: Unwavering Commitment to Vigna Classification
In Alto Adige, Martin Foradori Hofstätter became one of the most ardent supporters of the origin philosophy. He pursued the firm establishment of the Vigna classification as the ultimate indicator of quality and single-vineyard origin with unwavering resolve. This dedication not only upholds tradition but also positions J. Hofstätter as a leader in the wine industry and a beacon of quality going forward.
The wines
2022 Weissburgunder (Pinot bianco)
Good looking normal-size bottle. The colour is light. On the nose, it is youthful and fresh. The taste is fruity, fresh, ripe, dry, and low in acidity, with a balanced structure and youthful. On the palate, it is layered and has mineral, floral, apricot, citrus, white fruits and vegetal flavours. The finish is medium long. Perfectly stored bottles are still very worthy and will last well for another 10-15 years. Good value for money.
