Colterenzio Chardonnay “Altkirch”
WHY WE LOVE IT
- The Colterenzio Chardonnay Altkirch, named after the historic “Altkirch” vineyard site, is a crisp, unoaked white wine from Italy’s Alto Adige/Südtirol region.
- The vineyard has deep sandy soil on gravelly deposits, giving it classic alpine minerality.
- The grapes are grown on sunny, alpine hillsides where dramatic day-to-night temperature shifts preserve the wine’s vibrant acidity and crisp fruit profile.
Varietal Composition: 100% SChardonnay
Elaboration: The fermentation takes place in stainless-steel tanks with the temperature controlled at approx.18°C, a small part of the must is put in large wooden casks. The new wine subsequently matures for several months on the fine lees.
Tasting Notes: Pale yellow with green reflexes in color, delicate and floral in aromas. The flavor is infused with hints of exotic fruits reminiscent of pineapple and mango; on the palate, it is a concentration of mellowness and vivacity with classic mineral notes and crisp acidity.
PRESS
2024 – 92 Wine Enthusiast | 90 James Suckling
PRODUCER BACKGROUND
Colterenzio is one of the newest wineries in South Tyrol, composed of over 300 families working together. This is a new-generation cooperative that smashes preconceptions, proving that a humble “coop” can consistently deliver some of the most transparent, expressive wines in the top flight region of Alto Adige.
Member-winegrowers farm their grapes on a total of 300 hectares; the vineyards are located in one of the best wine growing sub-districts of Alto Adige, on altitudes ranging from 230 to 650 meters with 12 different varieties cultivated. Ecology is a driving principle here – Farming is sustainable and the winery was built with permaculture in mind.