Elena Walch : Gewurztraminer "Vigna Kastelaz" 2021

The finesse and complexity of a white wine from Alto Adige

The estate

A multi-award winner by Wine Spectator and El Gambero Rosso, Elena Walch is at the helm of one of the most beautiful properties in Italy's Alto Adige region. Elena Walch is a leading figure in the Trentino Alto Adige region, a very old and steep wine-growing area in the north-east of Italy. Following her marriage to Werner Walch, the fourth generation of one of the region's largest winegrowing families, this qualified architect embarked on a winegrowing adventure, bringing her freshness, dynamism and modernity to the traditional establishment. Today, Elena Walch is one of Italy's leading winemakers. Driven by the passion passed on from their mother, Karolina and Julia Walch have joined the family estate.

The wine

Elena Walch's Gewurztraminer "Vigna Kastelaz" 2021 is an Alto Adige wine made from grapes that stem from the Vigna Kastelaz terroir, whose unique geographic position is confirmed by the name "Vigna".

Poised at an altitude of between 330 and 380 metres, this vineyard faces south on a steep slope with narrow terraces, and rests on soils composed of granite and volcanic rock. Due to its sun exposure, altitude and windy climate, this terroir gives rise to a wine that is recognised beyond the country’s borders for its rare aromatic expression and finesse. The residual sugar level of this vintage is 5.5 g/litre.

The vintage

The dry and cool spring delayed the flowering period. Although June was particularly dry, the summer was unstable yet pleasant weather conditions set in for a long period from mid-August. The temperature variations between night and day recorded in the run-up to the harvest are ideal and helped to ensure a perfect ripening of the grapes.

Vinification and ageing

The harvest is carried out in two successive selections in order to select and harvest the grapes at optimum ripeness. Destemming followed by cold maceration for 6 hours precedes pressing and clarification of the wines by refrigeration. Fermentation at a temperature of 18°C is carried out using selected yeasts. The wine is then aged on its lees for several months.

The blend

Gewürztraminer (100%).

Gewurztraminer "Vigna Kastelaz" 2021 by Elena Walch: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Colour
This wine showcases a beautiful golden yellow colour.

Nose
Roses, lychee and acacia honey are the fragrances that characterise this refined and mineral nose.

Palate
The lively and elegant palate reveals a beautiful structure, sustained by refreshing spicy notes and a very delicate finish.

Cellaring

This Gewurztraminer "Vigna Kastelaz" 2021 by Elena Walch can be kept in the cellar until 2029 to develop its full aromatic range.