This is part of an extensive program of content on Italian wines and culture over the summer of 2020 on JamesSuckling.com. Read this post to see more examples of the stories we will be posting over the next few weeks.
“The Miracle of Alto Adige” is a documentary dedicated to the passionate, persistent wine producers in Alto Adige, one of the most challenging places to grow grapes in the world. It is a very special yet lesser-known wine region in the northern part of Italy, which is surrounded by the Alps and the Dolomites on three sides.
A collaboration between the internationally acclaimed wine critic James Suckling, Jack Suckling and Hollywood director James Orr, “The Miracle of Alto Adige” unveils the stories behind the wines at Alto Adige, from the ardent winemakers working on the steepest slopes to the unique characteristics that this extreme terroir has to offer.
“Alto Adige is a picturesque place, dotted with castles, small towns, and apple orchards as far as the eye can see," says James in the film. "But it’s on the steep mountainsides where most of the grapes are grown, and some of those vineyards are as high as a thousand meters, making them extremely difficult to farm. If you believe that greatness is never easy, then the producers in Alto Adige are making great wine because it certainly isn’t easy.”
Hollywood director James Orr, known for his work on such movies as “Three Men and a Baby,” “Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit” and “Mr. Destiny,” shot and edited the production of “The Miracle of Alto Adige.” “I am a wine lover and I’ve always wanted the world to understand what a unique place Alto Adige is and how hard it is to make wine there,” says Orr.
Aside from elaborate drone and helicopter footage that beautifully encapsulates Alto Adige’s stunning terroir, the 23-minute documentary features exclusive interviews with the admirable and successful wine producers in the region. To name a few: Klaus Gasser from Terlano, Andi Punter from Franz Haas, Gottfried Poillinger from Nals Margreid and Willi Sturz from Tramin. The film explores the region’s unique dynamics of extreme viticulture, family cooperatives in this mountainous area and resilient, passionate winemakers.
“The Miracle of Alto Adige” first debuted at the Sonoma International Film Festival on March 22, 2018. Now, the documentary is available for live streaming on JamesSuckling.com.
