Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
Vigna Kastelaz dominates the wine village of Tramin. Its narrow terraces climb a remarkably steep, fully south-facing slope at 330–380 m. Loose limestone is layered with post-glacial sand, granite and porphyry. Abundant sunshine promotes ripeness, while altitude and strong winds bring cool evening temperatures. Yields are kept very low and the crop is harvested entirely by hand.
Grapes
100% Merlot.
Vinification
The must ferments for approximately ten days, followed by malolactic fermentation. Since 2015, the fruit has been handled by gravity in a dedicated fermentation cellar. Whole-grape processing, a highly sensitive destemmer and gentle transport in a rail-mounted vessel called a cuvon are designed to preserve the fruit.
Ageing
The wine matures for 18 months in French barriques from Limousin and Allier, almost all new, followed by about eight months in bottle before release.
Technical data
The 2023 has 14.5% alcohol, 5.6 g/L total acidity and 1.2 g/L residual sugar. Bottle format is 0.75 L, and the stated ageing potential is 10–18 years.
Tasting profile
Bright ruby red. The nose is intense and pure, combining Morello or sour cherry and plum with caramel and delicate toast. Supple, velvety tannins frame a soft, rounded texture, juicy spice and concentrated fruit. The wine is full-bodied and structured but retains fine elegance.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 16–18 °C with meat dishes, venison, game or mature cheeses.
Vintage notes
The 2023 growing season alternated between warm and cool periods and included episodes of rain. Midsummer conditions in June and July were followed by heavy rain at the beginning of August. A long, sunny ripening period followed, with harvest beginning in early September. Warm days and cool nights produced fully ripe fruit with balanced acidity, clear fruit expression and good structure.
