“Doran” Chardonnay Riserva Alto Adige DOC 2023

Cantina Andrian | South Tyrol
Kellerei Terlan Gen. Landw. Ges. | Silberleitenweg 7 | IT 39018 Terlan

01101223 · 0,75 l · 50,67 €/lavailable immediately

Doran is no accident. This wine demonstrates what happens when French Chardonnay clones meet South Tyrolean limestone soils. The Andrian Winery takes exactly the time this Riserva needs: twelve months in tonneaux, 30 per cent of which are new French oak barrels. This is the Burgundian school in its purest form. The grapes come from the highest vineyards around Andrian, at altitudes of between 350 and 450 metres. There, the calcareous loam soil is interspersed with white dolomite rock. The microclimate makes all the difference: cooler temperatures than elsewhere, a longer ripening period, and higher acidity. Perfect for a Chardonnay with ambition. Cellar master Rudi Kofler opts for full fermentation in wood. Regular bâtonnage ensures that the oak integrates elegantly, without ever becoming overpowering. Following malolactic fermentation, the wine matures for a further three months in stainless steel – to achieve the final balance between opulence and freshness.

An intense straw-yellow colour with greenish highlights. The bouquet is complex yet unpretentious: ripe yellow apples, pear and a hint of mango. These are complemented by notes of white pepper and subtle toasty aromas from the oak ageing. On the palate, the full power of these high-altitude vineyards comes to the fore: voluminous, well-structured and with a juicy acidity that holds everything together. The finish is long and precise, with mineral undertones. Doran is not a wine for immediate enjoyment. It needs time and air in a large glass, and it also offers superb ageing potential if you give it time. And at the table, we would consider it a perfect match for pan-fried sea bream or roast duck. SUPERIORE.DE

"Elegant nose of lemon curd, lime blossom and apples; a palate of orchard fruit, lemon rind, buttery oak with a refreshing acid lift." Decanter