St. Michael-Eppan Sanct Valentin Chardonnay Alto Adige

Key characteristics:

St. Michael-Eppan Sanct Valentin Chardonnay Alto Adige is one of the most expressive and acclaimed white wines from Alto Adige, representing the pinnacle of quality and innovation from the renowned St. Michael-Eppan winery. This prestigious wine, part of the Sanct Valentin line first launched in 1986, is celebrated for its rich, complex profile, exceptional balance, vibrant acidity, and remarkable aging potential.

Tasting Notes:

• Variety: Crafted from 100% Chardonnay grapes, a varietal highly esteemed in Alto Adige for producing elegant wines with well-balanced acidity and a captivating interplay of aromas.
• Appearance: Straw yellow with light green reflections.
• Aroma: A sophisticated bouquet of ripe fruit, complemented by enticing notes of vanilla and toast, alongside hints of apple, peach, and citrus. Subtle nuances of butter and sweet spices emerge from elegant wood aging.
• Taste: Powerful, mineral, buttery, and full-bodied, this wine is full and enveloping on the palate. It boasts a fresh, bright acidity that ensures perfect balance and a long, luscious aromatic persistence.
• Region: Hailing from Alto Adige, Italy, the grapes are handpicked from selected vineyards in the municipality of Appiano, situated at high elevations (450-550m). This unique terroir, characterized by calcareous gravel soils and an ideal microclimate, contributes to the wine’s intense flavors and marked structure.
• Pairing: An excellent companion to strong recipes such as mixed fried fish, porcini mushroom ravioli, and Graukäse risotto. It also pairs perfectly with baked chicken, Milanese cutlet, or a variety of refined fish, seafood, and poultry dishes.

Overall impression:

This Chardonnay delivers an elegant, layered, and multidimensional experience, showcasing exquisite minerality and a harmonious balance. Its vigorous yet refined character promises a sophisticated drinking experience with excellent aging potential.

Extra notes:

• The St. Michael-Eppan winery, a cooperative founded in 1907, is highly acclaimed, having been named “Best Italian Winery of the Year” by Gambero Rosso and Slow Food in 2000, and “Cooperative Winery of the Year” again in 2021.
• Cellar Master Hans Terzer, a pivotal figure at St. Michael-Eppan, was recognized as one of the ten best winemakers in the world in 2000, and is known for his commitment to crafting clear, pure, and varietally true wines.