What kind of wine is Alto Adige Passito DOC 'Comtess Sanct Valentin' 2022 - San Michele Appiano (0.375l)

The Alto Adige Passito DOC “Comtess Sanct Valentin” 2022 from San Michele Appiano is a refined sweet wine made from Gewürztraminer grapes left to naturally air-dry on the vine. Hailing from the hills of Appiano, in the heart of Alto Adige, this passito stands out for its perfect balance of sweetness, freshness, and minerality. It is an aromatic and enveloping wine, capable of fully conveying the personality of the grape variety and the rigorous production standards of one of the region's most renowned wineries.

Vintage details

2022 in Alto Adige was characterized by a hot, dry summer, followed by a mild and sunny autumn, ideal for encouraging a gradual and natural air-drying of the bunches. This condition allowed for grapes rich in sugar but still possessing a lively acidity, essential for giving balance and impetus to the wine.

Vinification and aging

After a late harvest, the grapes are gently pressed, and the must ferments slowly. Fermentation takes place partly in oak barriques and partly in stainless steel, a solution that preserves the fruit's fragrance while developing aromatic complexity. After aging, the wine is bottled in a 0.375l format, ideal for tastings and special occasions.

Tasting notes

Color

Visually, it presents a brilliant golden yellow color with amber reflections, typical of great passito wines. Its luminosity anticipates the richness of its bouquet.

Nose

The nose is intense and complex, with aromas of ripe exotic fruit, lychee, dried apricot, and honey, accompanied by floral notes of rose petals and a delicate spicy touch. In the background, a pleasant mineral vein emerges, lending elegance and depth.

Palate

On the palate, the “Comtess Sanct Valentin” 2022 is soft, seductive, but never cloying. The sweetness is balanced by a lively freshness and a subtle savory note that invites another sip. The finish is long and persistent, with hints of honey and candied citrus.

What dishes to pair with Alto Adige Passito DOC 'Comtess Sanct Valentin' 2022 - San Michele Appiano (0.375l)

This passito is perfect for concluding an elegant dinner but can also surprise with more creative pairings. Recommended pairings include:

• Blue cheeses or aged cheeses, such as sweet gorgonzola;
• Dry pastries and desserts made with yellow fruits;
• Foie gras and duck liver terrines, for a harmonious sweet-savory contrast;
• In summer, also simply to enjoy well chilled as a meditation wine.

Storage and aging: how to store Alto Adige Passito DOC 'Comtess Sanct Valentin' 2022 - San Michele Appiano (0.375l)

To preserve the qualities of “Comtess Sanct Valentin”, it is advisable to store it in a cool, dark environment with controlled humidity, ideally laid down to keep the cork moist. Although it is a wine with good aging potential, its maximum expression is appreciated within 2-3 years of the harvest, a period during which it best preserves the aromatic fragrance and pleasant sweetness that distinguish it.