What kind of wine is Alto Adige Chardonnay Riserva DOC 'Doran' 2022 - Andriano?

The Alto Adige Chardonnay Riserva DOC “Doran” 2022 - Andriano is born in the heart of Alto Adige, in a mountainous area where the cool climate and calcareous soils produce elegant and vibrant wines. Made from Chardonnay grapes grown between 350 and 400 meters above sea level, this white wine expresses the perfect union between territory and grape variety: alpine freshness, Dolomitic minerality, and harmonious structure. It is a modern yet refined wine, ideal for those seeking an intense, balanced white with a complex aromatic profile.

Vintage Details

2022 in Alto Adige was a balanced year, with a warm summer mitigated by the typical nocturnal temperature swings of the area. Well-distributed rainfall ensured excellent grape ripening, resulting in healthy, aromatic grapes. This climatic trend allowed for a Chardonnay with a full structure but splendid acidity, guaranteeing longevity and vibrancy in the glass.

Winemaking and Aging

The winemaking of the Alto Adige Chardonnay Riserva DOC “Doran” 2022 - Andriano is carefully executed to enhance elegance and depth. After a soft pressing, the must ferments slowly in tonneaux (small 500-liter oak barrels), where the wine matures for about 12 months. Subsequently, it refines in steel tanks for a few months to stabilize its aromatic profile and maintain its natural freshness. This double passage through wood and steel confers a fine harmony between creamy and mineral components.

Tasting Notes

Color: Intense straw yellow with delicate golden reflections, indicating structure and maturity. In the glass, it shines with crystalline luminosity, a sign of a vibrant and well-cared-for wine.

Nose: The initial impression is fruity, with notes of yellow apple, pear, and white peach. Nuances of vanilla and hazelnut then emerge, derived from the wood aging, blending with mineral and floral hints. It is a broad and inviting bouquet that evolves elegantly in the glass.

Palate: On the palate, it is full yet fresh, balanced by a pleasant acidity that prolongs its persistence. The creamy texture and savouriness (that sensation of freshness and minerality typical of mountain wines) make the sip dynamic and harmonious. The finish is long and clean, with fruity returns and a slight echo of white stone.

What dishes to pair with Alto Adige Chardonnay Riserva DOC 'Doran' 2022 - Andriano

This Chardonnay Riserva pairs wonderfully with structured fish dishes and white meats. Its elegance also makes it perfect for vegetarian cuisine and refined aperitifs. Here are some suggested pairings:

• Seafood risotto or aromatic herb risotto
• Baked sea bream fillet with grilled vegetables
• Veal stew with lemon
• Semi-hard cheeses like Gruyère or young Comté

It is a versatile wine, capable of enhancing simple dishes as well as more elaborate recipes.

Storage and aging – how to store Alto Adige Chardonnay Riserva DOC 'Doran' 2022 - Andriano

To preserve the qualities of this Chardonnay Riserva, it is important to store it in a cool place, away from light and temperature fluctuations. The bottle should be kept horizontally so that the cork remains moist and ensures an airtight seal. Although it is a wine capable of evolving elegantly, it is best enjoyed within the first 2-3 years after harvest, when its freshness and aromatics are at their peak. Over time, it develops more complex and softer notes, but it is advisable to taste it within a few years to best appreciate its energy and vibrancy.