Gschleier Weinkost

A tasting among the vines of Cornaiano

The Gschleier Weinkost is one of the most enchanting wine events of the South Tyrolean summer. It takes place in the Gschleier area, northwest of Cornaiano (Girlan), a village in the municipality of Appiano sulla strada del vino (Eppan an der Weinstraße), in the province of Bolzano, along the Hoher Weg educational wine trail. Here, in the heart of the South Tyrolean Wine Road, visitors stroll through the vineyards at dusk, stopping at various stations set up among the rows to sample wines from local producers.

A multi-stop vineyard journey

The event follows an itinerant tasting format: along the path, you will find numerous stations, each dedicated to a different wine style. The journey begins with sparkling wine, continues with fresh and aromatic local whites, explores innovative disease-resistant PIWI varieties, and moves on to structured, full-bodied reds and spirits. To accompany the glasses, typical South Tyrolean and Mediterranean gourmet specialties are served at stations along the route, while live music and soft lighting among the vines create a unique atmosphere as the sun sets.

The Gschleier terroir

The Gschleier area is a historic cru of Cornaiano viticulture: nestled on a morainic hill at an altitude of approximately 390–450 meters, it enjoys a warm microclimate and southern exposure. Since 1975, it has produced wine made exclusively from the native Schiava (Vernatsch) grape, known for its robustness and good structure. Fifteen information boards along the educational trail tell visitors about the grape varieties, cultivation methods, and the long winemaking tradition of this corner of South Tyrol.

Organization and spirit of the festival

The event is organized by the Cornaiano youth association (Landjugend/Bauernjugend Girlan), which brings the vineyard to life every year to welcome enthusiasts and curious visitors. More than just a commercial event, Gschleier Weinkost is a village festival that celebrates the deep bond between the community of Appiano and its wine-growing land, set in an exceptional landscape between Cornaiano and Appiano.