What kind of wine is Alto Adige Merlot DOC 2024 - Elena Walch?

The Alto Adige Merlot DOC 2024 - Elena Walch is an elegant and harmonious single-varietal red wine, perfectly expressing the viticultural vocation of South Tyrol. It is made from 100% Merlot grapes, cultivated in Elena Walch winery's own and leased vineyards, one of the leading names in quality viticulture in Alto Adige. It is a Merlot with character, medium-bodied, balanced, and versatile, perfect for those seeking a pleasant yet substantial wine.

Vintage Details

The 2024 harvest in Alto Adige was characterized by a balanced climate, with warm days and cool nights that favored optimal grape ripening. Temperature excursions enhanced aromatic concentration and fruit intensity, resulting in a Merlot with a fragrant and mature, yet always fresh and vibrant, profile.

Winemaking and Aging

After harvesting, the grapes are fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve the purity of the fruit. This is followed by a brief maceration – the contact of the must with the skins – to extract color and delicate tannins. The wine is then aged for several months in large Slovenian oak barrels, where it refines and develops a pleasant complexity, without losing its original freshness.

Tasting Notes

The Alto Adige Merlot DOC 2024 - Elena Walch stands out for its harmonious and balanced sensory profile, reflecting the elegance of great mountain reds.

Color

Visually, it presents an intense, brilliant, and deep ruby red, with subtle purplish hues that speak of its youth and vitality.

Nose

On the nose, it releases aromas of ripe red fruits such as cherry and currant, followed by fine spicy notes and a hint of alpine herbs. The vanilla and slight toast tones come from the brief passage in oak, well integrated into the overall profile.

Palate

On the palate, it is soft and round, with silky tannins and a pleasant balanced structure. The lively freshness accompanies the sip to a persistent and harmonious finish, with fruity returns and delicate spices.

What dishes to pair with Alto Adige Merlot DOC 2024 - Elena Walch

Thanks to its versatility and elegant profile, this Merlot is ideal for accompanying many dishes from Italian and international cuisine. It pairs excellently with:

• Grilled or roasted pork
• Medium-aged cheeses, such as Montasio or Pecorino
• Traditional alpine dishes, such as dumplings and stews
• Pasta with red sauces or light game sauces

An easy-to-enjoy wine, but never ordinary, perfect for a Sunday lunch or dinner with friends.

Storage and Aging: how to store Alto Adige Merlot DOC 2024 - Elena Walch wine

To maintain its characteristics, it is advisable to store the Alto Adige Merlot DOC 2024 - Elena Walch in a cool, dark place, with a constant temperature between 12 and 16°C and the bottle positioned horizontally. Avoid temperature fluctuations and direct light. Despite its readiness to drink, it can evolve positively for 3-5 years, developing softer and spicier nuances with bottle aging.