“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 €/l · Price (DE) incl. VAT, excl. Shippingavailable 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% 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 toasted 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 ties 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

"An elegant bouquet of lemon cream, lime blossom and apples; on the palate, notes of orchard fruit, lemon zest and buttery oak, with a refreshing acidity." Decanter

"An ambitious wine with winter melon, white flowers, stone fruit and toast on the nose. Medium-bodied, crisp and vibrant, with peachy flavors and savory length." James Suckling