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Let's see, how's my German? I believe erste means first and neue means new. They're references to the merger of the formerly named First and New wine co-operatives. And by the German you can guess this is a very northern winery in Italy, up in wine-trendy Sudtirol-Alto Adige. Supplying added interest is the unusual red grape, vernatsch, which I'm guessing you have not enjoyed much lately or in fact ever. My northern Italian relatives have a synonym for it: schiava. The wine won't bowl over fans of rich shiraz or California cabernet, but it's a classic example of fine reds from the region – designed for those who care little for a mouthful of oak. Light-medium-bodied and crisp as the Alpine air, it suggests cherry cough drop, licorice and smoke. Serve it slightly chilled, preferably with grilled sausages or pizza, that sort of thing. Available in Ontario.

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