Elena Walch - Cardellino Chardonnay 2018
Pairing Suggestions
Elena Walch - Cardellino Chardonnay 2018 (88 TSW)
Elena Walch is one of the top wineries in Alto Adige. Together with her two daughters, Elena Walch runs the winery and makes quality wines that are internationally successful. Not surprising, because Elena Walch played a leading role in the quality revolution that Alto Adige has gone through in recent decades. But not only those innovations in vineyard and cellar make her wines so exceptional. Her philosophy is mainly devoted to terroir and the idea that the specific properties of soil, (micro) climate and work in the vineyard should be optimally used in every wine.
Sustainability is also an important starting point in all facets of wine production. The picturesque domains of Castel Ringberg and Kastelaz (which I visted two years ago) form the core of the vineyards, which cover a total of around 55 hectares.
About the wine:
The Chardonnay "Cardellino" was the first wine of Elena Walch and is still the most popular wine of the wine estate today. According to an old tale, the goldfinch - the "cardellino" - builds its nest only in Chardonnay vines, while not nesting in other grape varieties.
The vintage 2018 presents itself as an excellent vintage with an excellent quality.
Soft pressing, static clarification, followed by temperature controlled fermentation after which the wine is kept on its fine lees for several months. A part of the wine (15%) is fermented in French oak barriques, where it matures on its lees for another six months. Final blending occurs in spring.
My tasting notes:
In the glass a bright straw yellow color with green reflections.
On the medium+ nose aromas of melon, mango and peach with subtle hints of butter, straw and lychee.
On the palate dry, medium+ bodied, slightly mineral in taste, also somewhat severe, refined acids, still young in development. Very refreshing style Chardonnay (not the typical) with tropical fruits, herbs and honey. Very nice and long finish. Very good PQR.