Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
Vigna Castel Ringberg is a mapped single vineyard and an Elena Walch monopole, rising in moderate and steep slopes from Lake Caldaro toward the Mendel ridge. Its altitude ranges from 330 to 400 metres. Higher positions contain approximately 30,000-year-old glacial Adige River gravel, while calcareous soils with morainic subsoil and loose limestone occur in the gentler lower zones. The lake moderates temperatures; cool nights and the strong, dry Ora wind ventilate the slopes. Yields are deliberately low, and this Riserva is made in strictly limited quantities.
Grapes
100% Chardonnay, entirely hand-picked at optimum maturity.
Vinification
The fruit is crushed and pressed immediately after picking. Fermentation takes place in French oak barriques, with partial malolactic fermentation.
Ageing
The wine remains on its lees in barrique for ten months, with regular bâtonnage, then matures for several months in bottle before release.
Technical data
2023: 13.5% vol alcohol, 0.0 g/L residual sugar and 6.7 g/L total acidity. Available in 0.75 L bottles. Recommended ageing is 10–12 years.
Tasting profile
Fresh golden yellow. The dense, complex bouquet combines exotic fruit, including papaya, with roasted almond and a touch of dandelion honey. The palate balances freshness and power: an elegant structure and juicy mineral line meet creamy body and harmonious richness, leading to a long, refreshing finish.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 12–14°C with white meats, smoked salmon or refined mushroom dishes.
Vintage notes
The 2023 season alternated warm and cool periods and included intermittent rain. Midsummer conditions prevailed in June and July, followed by substantial rainfall at the start of August. A long, sunny ripening period followed. Harvest began late, in early September, under ideal conditions before the weather became less stable toward the end. Warm days and cool nights produced optimal ripeness, balanced acidity, clear fruit and good structure.
Label / history
The vineyard is named after the Renaissance Castel Ringberg, built by the Habsburgs in 1620. The term “Vigna” identifies its status as a precisely delimited and cartographically recorded vineyard.
