Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
The fruit comes from warm, sun-drenched Alto Adige vineyards with calcareous soils. Mediterranean warmth is moderated by cool winds from the surrounding Dolomites, bringing tension to the wine.
Grapes
Blend proportions vary by vintage. Latest published percentages (2023): 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and approximately 10% Cabernet Franc.
Vinification
Traditional must fermentation lasts approximately 10 days in stainless-steel tanks. Malolactic fermentation takes place in large oak vats.
Ageing
The wine matures for 12 months in French oak barriques, followed by several months of bottle ageing before release.
Technical data
2023: 14.00% alcohol, 5.6 g/L total acidity and 2.8 g/L residual sugar. Formats are 0.375 L, 0.75 L and 1.5 L. Estimated ageing potential is 8–10 years.
Tasting profile
Intense ruby red. Red forest berries and heart cherries lead the nose, complemented by white pepper and chocolate. The palate is fresh yet full and structured, with density, precise elegant tannins and a long, juicy finish.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 16–18 °C with red meat, venison, game or cheese.
Vintage notes
The 2023 season alternated warm and cool periods with some rainfall. A midsummer-like June and July gave way to heavy rain at the beginning of August, followed by sunny conditions that permitted extended ripening. Harvest began in early September in ideal weather, becoming less stable later. Warm days and cool nights supported clear fruit, balanced acidity and sound structure.
Label / history
Istrice was Elena Walch’s first red wine. Its name evokes the small hedgehogs living in the family estate’s park. Earlier versions were predominantly Cabernet Franc with a smaller share of Cabernet Sauvignon; the balance has since reversed, bringing greater elegance and finesse while retaining the wine’s characteristic structure.
