The News
Andreas Kofler has been re-elected as president of the Consorzio Alto Adige Wines for a third consecutive term. The organization, based in BOLZANO, Italy, is responsible for protecting and promoting Alto Adige DOC wines worldwide. The decision was made during the board’s inaugural session, with Kofler representing Cantina Kurtatsch. The newly elected Board of Directors includes representatives from cooperative wineries, estate wineries, and independent winegrowers in Alto Adige.
Trade readers, this week’s focus is the Alto Adige Wines Consorzio and its strategic pivot under a newly re‑elected president.
The Consorzio’s board confirmed that Andreas Kofler has secured a third three‑year term, signaling steady governance that should reduce volatility in supply planning.
The decision to finish the “Casa del Vino” headquarters by the end of 2026—after nearly two decades of bureaucratic groundwork—consolidates the Consorzio’s operational core.
With 86 Additional Geographical Units (UGAs) now authorized on labels, producers gain a sharper differentiation tool in an increasingly saturated premium market.
The Consorzio’s push into Brazil and Poland demonstrates a deliberate effort to diversify its export base beyond traditional European and North‑American markets.
Distributors should note that the expanded UGA count requires verification of labeling compliance; non‑compliance could trigger penalties or market backlash.
For bar managers, the new headquarters offers an experiential anchor: anticipate tasting‑room partnerships or promotional events that could drive foot traffic to venues featuring Alto Adige selections. Bars are encouraged to plan targeted menu placements that highlight the region’s terroir depth and explore co‑branding opportunities with local distributors once the headquarters opens.
The Consorzio’s strategy includes sustainability certification, new international markets, and a continued focus on the Alto Adige Wine Summit. The “Casa del Vino” will serve as a cultural hub to enhance brand storytelling and support future marketing initiatives.
Original Press Release
BOLZANO, Italy, May 27, 2026 — The Consorzio Alto Adige Wines, the organization responsible for protecting and promoting Alto Adige DOC wines worldwide, has re-elected Andreas Kofler as president for a third consecutive term. The decision reflects the Consorzio’s continued commitment to strengthening Alto Adige’s reputation as one of Italy’s most distinctive premium wine regions, known for its alpine terroir, high-altitude vineyards, and quality-driven production.
Founded in 2007, the Consorzio serves as the central organization representing the region’s wine industry. It protects Alto Adige DOC appellations, oversees the Alto Adige Wines brand globally, supports international market development, and provides services to its members.
During the board’s inaugural session, Andreas Kofler, president of Cantina Kurtatsch, was reconfirmed as president of the Consorzio. The newly elected Board of Directors brings together representatives from Alto Adige’s cooperative wineries, estate wineries, and independent winegrowers, reflecting the region’s diverse and collaborative wine community.
“To continue representing the Consorzio as president is both an honor and a responsibility,” said Kofler following his re-election. “I also see this renewal as confirmation of the direction we have taken over the past several years.”
Kofler emphasized that the Consorzio’s long-term vision remains centered on expressing the strongest possible connection between wine and terroir. “The most tangible expression of this evolution is the recognition of 86 Additional Geographical Units (UGAs) that can now be indicated on wine labels, taking our commitment to authenticity, connection to terroir, and transparency in communication to a new level,” said the newly re-elected president.
Another major initiative remains the development of the “Casa del Vino” (House of Wine), a new headquarters and cultural hub currently under construction in a historic building adjacent to Mareccio Castle in Bolzano. “After nearly 20 years of planning and overcoming bureaucratic challenges, construction is now moving forward,” Kofler said. The new space is expected to serve not only as the Consorzio’s operational headquarters, but also as a showcase for Alto Adige wine culture and identity.
Kofler also highlighted the expansion of wine tourism as a strategic growth area for the region. “The potential of wine tourism in Alto Adige has been underestimated so far,” he explained. The Consorzio plans to further develop and professionalize the region’s wine tourism offerings to attract new audiences, particularly during off-peak travel seasons and in lesser-known areas of the region. “The goal is to one day compete with benchmark wine tourism destinations such as Burgundy, Piedmont, Tuscany, and Napa Valley,” Kofler said.
The Alto Adige Wine Summit will remain the Consorzio’s flagship marketing event and will return in 2027. The biennial event brings together international wine media and trade professionals from key global markets and continues to expand its programming and international reach.
Following his re-election, Kofler also thanked the Consorzio team for its continued dedication and expertise. “I know I can always count on the competence and commitment of our staff,” he said. “That is why I look forward with confidence to what the next three years will bring.”
Sources consulted (web research):
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Source: BevNET