2022 Elena Walch Lagrein "Castel Ringberg" Riserva, Alto Adige, Italy

ABOUT THIS WINE

The Renaissance-style "Castel Ringberg" estate, built by the Habsburg dynasty in 1620, overlooks Lake Caldaro and is nestled amidst the rolling greenery of its vineyard rows. The term "Vigna" denotes a specific geographical designation, referring to a single, strictly defined vineyard plot with precise cartographic boundaries. The estate—featuring terrain that ranges from gentle slopes to steep inclines—lies at the confluence of three soil types at an elevation of 330 to 400 meters above sea level. To the west, the vineyard is flanked by the Dolomite rock of the Mendola range, where steep slopes are composed of scree deposits dating back 30,000 years to the Adige River. In the central and southern sections, the largest areas consist of light, limestone-rich soils that ensure excellent root aeration. The moderating influence of Lake Caldaro, combined with strong afternoon winds, creates a dry microclimate that allows for viticulture practices deeply respectful of nature. These unique geological features, together with the breezy microclimate, yield mineral-rich wines of great elegance and refinement.

Following a typical spring, a cool spell in May slightly delayed the growing season, resulting in flowering beginning only towards the end of the month. High temperatures and drought conditions in June and July subsequently slowed vine development once more, effectively normalizing the growth cycle. The long-awaited rains arrived in early August, providing the vines with the water they needed. Meticulous vineyard work paid off, despite challenging weather conditions characterized by alternating hot spells and cool, rainy periods. Thanks to the "South Tyrolean golden autumn," the grapes benefited from prolonged optimal weather—and abundant sunshine—allowing the start of the harvest to be postponed beyond the traditional early-September date. In terms of quality, the 2023 vintage is distinguished by well-balanced acidity, characteristic fruit notes, and good structure.

Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks with a 10-day maceration on the skins, followed by malolactic fermentation in barrels. The wine is aged for 20 months in French oak barriques. After blending, it undergoes an extended period of bottle aging. Since 2015, a state-of-the-art fermentation facility has enabled extremely gentle handling of the grapes—whether as individual berries or whole clusters—by utilizing gravity flow. A highly sensitive destemmer and the careful transport of grapes via rail-mounted hoppers ensure the fruit is treated delicately, preserving its high quality and integrity. This cutting-edge facility represents the forefront of fermentation technology in South Tyrol and ranks among the most modern wineries in Italy dedicated to producing exceptional red wines.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

Elena Walch is a leading family estate in Alto Adige, known for championing quality-focused, sustainable viticulture. With a deep respect for tradition and a forward-thinking philosophy, the winery emphasizes reduced yields, meticulous site selection, and environmentally responsible farming.

Estate vineyards such as Castel Ringberg and Kastelaz benefit from diverse elevations and soils, contributing to the precision and elegance found across the portfolio. Through careful stewardship of both vineyard and cellar, Elena Walch continues to craft wines that embody the purity, balance, and distinctive Alpine character of Alto Adige.