The Birth of Manna
The idea of Manna was born at the table of a Michelin-starred restaurant in 1989. That evening, Franz and Maria Luisa were the restaurant’s only guests, receiving the full attention of both the sommelier and kitchen staff. With their seven-course tasting menu, seven bottles of wine were opened, and—although the staff joined in tasting—the bottles were emptied by the end of the evening.
A Vision for a Versatile Wine
During the ride home, they discussed the idea of creating a wine that could complement a variety of dishes, enhancing each one’s flavors without requiring multiple bottles. That vision led to the first vintage of Manna in 1995—a white wine dedicated to Maria Luisa Manna. It is a blend of five grape varieties, primarily Riesling, followed by Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, Sauvignon Blanc, and, starting with the 2013 vintage, Kerner.
Vineyard Location and Terroir
The vineyards for these five varieties are located at altitudes ranging from 350 to 800 meters above sea level, with soils varying in dolomite, porphyry, sand, and marble composition, all with southwest-facing slopes.
Harvesting and Vinification
Each grape variety is harvested and vinified separately due to differing ripening times. Chardonnay and Sauvignon undergo fermentation in barriques, while Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Kerner ferment in stainless steel tanks. After fermentation, the young wines are carefully blended to achieve harmony among the various aromatic components. Following ten months of aging, the wine is bottled and further refined for several months before release.
Color and Aromatic Profile
In its youth, Manna displays yellow-golden hues, which deepen into intense gold tones over time. Thanks to its unique characteristics, this wine captivates with a complex and layered bouquet, featuring notes of elderflower, pistachio, and rose petals. It stands out for its richness and depth, balanced by elegance and a distinct mineral structure. Manna is a versatile wine, constantly evolving, with Riesling’s high proportion contributing to its longevity.
The Art Behind the Label
A distinctive element of Manna is its connection to artist Riccardo Schweizer, who designed its labels. Schweizer, throughout his career, collaborated with renowned artists such as Picasso, Chagall, and Le Corbusier. His label designs were given to Franz by Maria Luisa Manna as good luck charms for the launch of his wines. The first label he designed was for Pinot Nero Schweizer, from its 1987 vintage, released in 1990. At a time when wine labels were traditionally simple, the bold black and gold design made a striking impression.
