“Löwengang” Chardonnay Vigneti delle Dolomiti IGT 2022 (BIO)

Alois Lageder | South Tyrol
Weingut Tenuta Alois Lageder | Vicolo dei Conti 9 | IT 39040 Magrè sulla Strada del Vino

01060722 · 0,75 l · 89,33 €/l · Price (DE) incl. VAT, excl. Shippingavailable immediately

South Tyrol's Chardonnay legend writes another chapter. Since 1994, the Löwengang has characterised the perception of Alpine white wine excellence like no other. The historic estate above Margreids holds a secret: Chardonnay vines, whose roots reach up to five decades deep into the South Tyrolean soil, thrive on barren limestone soils between 230 and 330 metres. The warm microclimate with its nightly drops in temperature produces grapes of concentrated minerality. The Lageder family gives this terroir free rein. Organic farming without compromise, spontaneous fermentation in hand-picked barriques from the Tronçais and Vosges forests. One third new wood lends structure, while eleven months on the lees give the wine its silky texture. A further twelve months of ageing in the cellar bring the final harmony.

The glass reveals golden yellow brilliance with greenish reflections. Stone fruit and citrus blossom dance with roasted hazelnuts and creamy brioche. The first sip: creamy yet precise, with a minerality reminiscent of Burgundian grands crus. The final lingers for minutes – a Chardonnay that redefines South Tyrol's potential and sets international standards every year. SUPERIORE.DE

Sweet yeast, slightly creamy, light spices, a hint of dried lemon peel, pear, complex. Silky, smooth, precise finish." Weinwisser

"The Chardonnay Löwengang 2022 is bright and luminous in appearance. After spontaneous fermentation in oak barrels, the wine shows sweet citrus flavours of preserved lemon, followed by minty apple. It also shows nutty elements that match the savoury flavours and creamy texture of the mouthfeel. This Chardonnay finishes with soft layers of pastry and lemon custard cream." Wine Advocate

"On the nose, there are aromas of medlar and pomegranate, with the slightly earthy character of spontaneous fermentation underneath. On the palate it is broad and silky, with soft acidity but a fresh, mineral energy and a long, buttery finish with pastry. A fascinating version of this legendary South Tyrolean Chardonnay from the hot 2022 vintage." Decanter

"A complex, detailed wine that is not without funky notes. Fairly neutral and slightly buttery on the nose with white flowers and citrus peel. Medium to full-bodied, silky with an almost oily palate. The acidity is quite lively on the finish." James Suckling

"The 2022 Chardonnay Löwengang is spicy to the core as a bouquet of dusty dried flowers, gingery spices, mint leaves, pine shavings and nectarines forms its truly seductive aromatics. It is elegant with seamlessly silken textures and depths of ripe apple and pear that sweep across a wave of tantalizing acidity. Dramatically long and structured, this echoes with notes of sour citrus and a crunchy mineral saturation, all under an air of chamomile. It is simply stunning today, yet with the balance for a long evolution." Vinous