Elena Walch : Gewurztraminer "Vigna Kastelaz Argentum Bonum" 2017

Characteristics and tasting notes for the 2017 Elena Walch Gewurztraminer "Vigna Kastelaz Argentum Bonum"

Tasting

Colour
This white wine reveals an intense golden yellow colour, with almost silvery highlights.

Nose
Wonderfully complex, the bouquet reveals aromas of dried fruits such as fig and apricot, interwoven with notes of fresh rose petals and honey. Subtle touches of Mediterranean herbs and an elegant minerality complete this aromatic palette.

Palate
The palate is captivating, with an elegant structure and richness, supported by a stimulating acidity that preserves a lovely freshness. Spicy and herbaceous notes harmonise with floral nuances, leading to a delicate, vibrant finish of remarkable persistence.

Food and wine pairing

This wine pairs wonderfully with shellfish such as crab or lobster, as well as with Asian cuisine, particularly coconut milk curries. It also enhances blue cheeses, refined duck preparations, truffle dishes, and egg-based dishes such as a quiche lorraine.

Service and storage

The 2017 Gewurztraminer "Vigna Kastelaz Argentum Bonum" has a remarkable ageing potential, allowing it to continue evolving favourably for many years after leaving the mine.

The unique expression of a great white wine from Trentino-Alto Adige by Elena Walch

The estate

Founded in 1988 by Elena Walch, this family estate is located in the Trentino-Alto Adige region of Italy. A true pioneer, the founder revolutionised local viticulture by focusing on quality and respect for the terroir. Today, the estate is run by her two daughters, Julia and Karoline Walch, who represent the fifth generation of the family involved in wine. The estate spans approximately 220 acres of vines and stands out for its sustainable practices, recognised by the government's VIVA certification, while producing wines of international renown.

The vineyard

The Vigna Kastelaz vineyard, situated above the village of Tramin in Alto Adige, represents an extreme and exceptional terroir. Facing due south, the vines are planted on terraces with a dizzying slope of 63%, making mechanical work impossible. Spread across altitudes of 330 to 380 metres, the soils are made up of layers of limestone, sand, granite, and porphyry. This unique microclimate benefits from strong daytime sunshine, cool nights, and the drying influence of the Ora wind, promoting optimal grape concentration.

Winemaking and ageing

Production of the 2017 Gewurztraminer "Vigna Kastelaz Argentum Bonum" begins with meticulous hand-harvesting carried out in two passes. After a six-hour cold maceration, the juice is clarified through natural sedimentation. Fermentation takes place at 18°C with selected yeasts, followed by several months of ageing on the lees. After an initial six-month bottle ageing period in a traditional cellar, the wine is transferred to a former Alpine silver mine at an altitude of 2,000 metres. There, it rests for seven years in total darkness, at a constant temperature of 11°C and 95% humidity, developing an extraordinary complexity.

Grape variety

100% Gewurztraminer