The award-winning St. Michael-Eppan Winery, leader in Alto Adige, is proud to present APPIUS 2020, a wine that represents the winery’s unwavering commitment to excellence. The Cuvée, made from selected grapes, unfolds in every sip the best of the 2020 vintage, which was characterized by remarkable volatile temperatures and rainfall throughout the growing season, challenges that the cooperative has overcome with the spirit (and motto) that has always distinguished it: “quality knows no compromise.”
Eppan (BZ) Dec. 16, 2024 – APPIUS returns to enchant in its eleventh edition, the first to pave the way for the new decade. This year’s most ambitious vintage portrait is APPIUS 2020, an exceptional blend and harmonious composition of four white grape varieties: Chardonnay predominates (60%), joined by Pinot Gris (20%), Pinot Blanc (10%) and Sauvignon Blanc (10%). The 2020 vintage of APPIUS, born from a year that posed its challenges, nonetheless showcases a wine of remarkable elegance and persistence, qualities that also reflect the resilience of St. Michael-Eppan throughout a demanding harvest.
APPIUS is the result of meticulous selection in the vineyard, individual processing in the cellar and careful final assemblage: alcoholic fermentation and a more reduced use of malolactic fermentation than in the past, followed by aging in barriques/tonneaux, blending after one year and further ageing on the lees for three years in stainless steel tanks. This attention to detail in both the vineyard and cellar ensures that each vintage of APPIUS is a true expression of its terroir.
Visually, APPIUS 2020 captivates with its brilliant chartreuse-yellow hue, enriched by delicate greenish reflections that enhance its appeal. On the nose, the wine offers a complex bouquet of tropical fruits, such as kiwi and pineapple, alongside the lush aromas of yellow-fleshed fruits like peaches and plums. The signature citrus notes of Sauvignon Blanc come through with hints of grapefruit and Japanese yuzu, balanced by the fresh herbal qualities of calamint, sage, and rosemary. The secondary aromas of yeast, reminiscent of brioche and freshly baked bread crust, add depth to the wine’s aromatic profile, while subtle nuances of toasted hazelnuts and cloves linger in the background. On the palate, APPIUS 2020 delivers a striking freshness and liveliness, setting it apart from previous vintages. The wine’s vibrant acidity runs through each sip, providing a sense of energy and dynamism that is balanced by a harmonious structure. The exceptional drinkability of APPIUS 2020 is a testament to its quality, with each component in perfect equilibrium. APPIUS 2020 is an ideal companion for a wide range of dishes, particularly those featuring fatty fish such as herring, tuna, and eel, as well as cod in the form of stockfish or creamed cod. Its versatility extends to pairings with noble white meats, mushroom-based specialties, and couscous dishes, making it an excellent choice for both casual and refined dining experiences.
The name “APPIUS” is derived from the ancient Roman term for “Eppan”, and the project was first launched with the 2010 vintage. Since then, APPIUS has continued to evolve, reinventing itself with each new release while remaining true to its original vision of showcasing the unique characteristics of each vintage and expressing the creativity and sensitivity of its creator. Even the design of the bottle and its label, created by Life Circus, is reinterpreted with each edition, transforming the wine into a true “collection” that appeals to connoisseurs and collectors around the world. The 2020 edition features a striking label design with golden geometric shapes and a textured striped motif. The label is open to free interpretation, allowing every wine lover to be inspired as they will.
As part of its ongoing evolution, APPIUS now has a dedicated space to honor its legacy: a new cellar, designed by architect Walter Angonese, that emphasizes the grandeur of this exceptional wine through its innovative use of space and geometry. This new facility further reinforces the significance of APPIUS as a symbol of excellence in winemaking. As with all previous vintages, APPIUS 2020 is a limited edition.
Download the Appius 2020 Datasheet.
