ELENA WALCH LAGREIN ALTO ADIGE 2022

Elena Walch's 2023 Lagrein showcases the distinctive terroir of Alto Adige, where limestone soils mixed with clay and sand create perfect conditions for this indigenous variety. Sustainably cultivated in southeast and southwest facing vineyards, the grapes benefited from 2023's warm days and cool nights despite seasonal challenges. This 100% Lagrein undergoes controlled fermentation in stainless steel followed by malolactic fermentation in French and Slavonian oak, then matures in large wooden barrels. The resulting 13.5% ABV wine displays a dense, deep garnet color with a complex, subtly spiced bouquet featuring cocoa, wild berries, and sweet cherry notes. Wine Spectator (90 points) praises its "hints of smoke and bacon fat" that "underscore the crushed black raspberry and boysenberry fruit," with "fine, taut tannins" and aromatic accents of "star anise, dried dill and thyme" on the "chewy finish."