Elena Walch
Alto Adige in north eastern Italy is in the midst of a great quality revolution and former architect, come wine producer, Elena Walch is proving to be one of its most exciting leading lights.
After marrying into one of the oldest established wine families in the region of Caldaro, Elena Walch took over two magnificent estates: Castel Ringberg overlooking Lago di Caldaro, and Kastelaz, a steep, south-facing hillside which towers above the village of Tramin, birthplace of the Gewürztraminer grape.
One of Walch’s most noteworthy wines, Beyond the Clouds, was recently described by Wine Spectator as “one of the best whites in Alto Adige.” This blend of classic South Tyrolean grapes, predominantly Chardonnay, is a full bodied, rich wine packed with fruit, and a hint of vanilla that comes from being fermented in new French barriques before maturing for 10 months in the bottle. It does not disappoint.
Another of Elena Walch’s notable wines is the Gewurztraminer Kastelaz, which has been awarded ‘3 glasses’ by Italy’s prestigious Gambero Rosso guide, on several occasions. The golden yellow Gewurztraminer has rose petals and spices on the nose, is a full bodied wine and bursting with flavour.
Wines available
• 2008 CHARDONNAY Cardellino DOC
• 2008 GEWURZTRAMINER Kastelaz DOC
• 2007 CHARDONNAY Castel Ringberg DOC
• 2007 BEYOND the CLOUDS VdT
• 2006 MOSCATO ROSA Kastelaz 375ml DOC
Visit their website:
www.elenawalch.com