Cantina Kurtatsch - Freienfeld Chardonnay Riserva DOC 2017

Cantina Kurtatsch - Freienfeld Chardonnay Riserva DOC 2017 (92/100 TSW)

Chardonnay Freienfeld, a blend of the best Chardonnay grapes, is produced only in years with optimal weather conditions. Originality and cultivation in harmony with nature are the guidelines in the vineyard.

Variety: Chardonnay
Appellation: Alto Adige DOC
Vineyard:300-500 m a.sl., south - east, slope with sandy and gravelly soil rich in dolomite.
Vinification: Fermentation in blond & medium toasted French barriques followed by ageing (incl. batonnage) for 12 months without malolactic fermentation. Ageing on the fine lees for 6 months in large oak barrels, min. 6 months of bottle aging.

NL Import: nicewine
BE Import: licatavini
Price range: €42,-

My tasting notes:

In the glass a deep yellow color with golden reflections.
In the medium(+) nose aromas of apricot, peach and yellow apple with hints of hazelnuts, honey, spices, roasted ceder.
On the medium(+) palate, dry with medium acidity and medium(+) and light creamy mouthfeel. Flavours of citrus, vanilla, ceder, pear and tropical fruits with a medium(+) powerful finish. A Chardonnay with great ageing potential.

About the winery

The estate is located in Kurtatsch, along South Tyrol's wine road in Alto-Adige. Cantina Kurtatsch cultivates about 200 hectares of vineyards. The vineyards are located on breathtakingly steep slopes from 220 to 900 meters above sea level, such a large difference in altitude within one municipality is unique in Europe. Since 2014, the team has been led by Andreas Kofler, who has guided the winery towards sustainable management.