Elena
Walch
Although the politically unified Trentino and Alto Adige are both white varietal
specialists and share many of the same grape affiliations, each distinguishes
itself with certain grapes. Also, Alto Adige affords its Germanic affiliation
tangible expression, as wine labels are frequently written in German. Several
producers present an individual varietal in a comprehensive stylistic range,
commencing with a fairly simple expression and encompassing various levels
of complexity attained through various approaches and techniques (i.e., oak
aging, representation of a single vineyard, etc.). The Pinot Bianco grape makes
the most frequent appearances in this hierarchical construct, as it may be
expressed in a relatively simple form or enhanced through oak. Gewürztraminer,
however, is widely regarded as the Alto Adige’s signature grape.
As Alto Adige has acquired more attention on the international wine scene,
producers such as Elena Walch have endeavored to effect significant qualitative
improvements in wine production. The Walch winery is situated in the communes
of Kaltern/Caldaro and Tramin and comprises two estates, Castel Ringberg and
Kastelaz, the latter of which is known for its expression of Gewürztraminer.
In addition to this regional specialty, Walch vinifies the region’s other
principal international and indigenous whites—Müller Thurgau, Pinot
Bianco, Chardonnay, and Pinot Grigio, many of which are crafted in accordance
with the aforementioned hierarchy, displaying increasing levels of complexity
through the range. Walch also produces the reds that Alto Adige is noted for,
including international favorites Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, and the indigenous
Lagrein. Although Alto Adige is Italy’s northernmost region, Lake Garda
provides a moderating effect, enabling red varietals to ripen sufficiently.
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