Colterenzio Lafoa Chardonnay 2018

Drink now or cellar for up to 9 years. Serve chilled.

The Uberetsch region of South Tyrol in northern Italy is known for its crisp, elegant whites and peppery reds. One of the leading wineries in the region is Cantina Colterenzio which was founded in 1960 by 26 local grape growers. Today the cooperative has more than 300 growers and 300 hectares of vines spread across the rolling hills which include some of South Tyrol’s top sites.

In the 1979 pioneering winemaker Luis Raifer took over the running of the cooperative. Inspired by a study trip to California, Raifer recognised the potential of their vineyards and introduced a thoroughly modern, quality-focused winemaking philosophy. One of Colterenzio’s finest vineyards today is Lafoa close to the town of Girlan where the fruit for this elegant Chardonnay is sourced.

Lafoa is set at 450-550 metres above sea level with well-draining sandy and gravel soils which are well suited to the old Chardonnay vines planted here. The must is vinified in the traditional way with fermentation and maturation in oak barrels. The young wine ages on the lees for 10 months with regular lees stirring to add complexity. This crafts a rich, full-bodied Chardonnay with ample tropical fruit notes, mouthwatering freshness and a very long finish.