THE WINERY: Elena Walch is a 5-generation family-run estate in Alto Adige, a region in the North-East part of Italy that led the wine quality revolution in the area and has gained a prominent international reputation. The philosophy of the estate is dedicated to its terroir – the idea that wines must be the individual expression of their soil, climate and cultivation in the vineyard – and that this must be maintained according to principles of sustainability and passed on to the next generation. The firm belief that the quality of wine is created in the vineyard requires uncompromising work, taking into account the individuality of each vineyard. With 90 hectares in cultivation, including the two top vineyards VIGNA Castel Ringberg in Caldaro und VIGNA Kastelaz in Tramin, Elena Walch belongs to the most important protagonists of Alto Adige winemaking.

THE WINE: “20/26” refers to the careful process of picking at 20 degrees Babo and fermenting at 26 degrees Celsius. This wine combines the elegance of Pinot Noir, the smoothness of Merlot, and the robustness of Lagrein. The result is a refined rosé produced through saignée vinification, boasting a strong structure and high finesse.

The 2023 vintage is noteworthy! Despite a difficult growing season with alternating warm and cool periods and some rain, we had a successful harvest season under ideal weather conditions. June and July were warm, followed by high rainfall in early August, which ultimately benefitted the grape ripening process. We started harvesting late in September when the weather was perfect, though it became more unstable towards the end. The balance of warm days and cool nights led the grapes to reach their peak ripeness, resulting in balanced acidity, clear fruit flavor, and good structure.

The classical “saignée” method: the must stays in contact with the skins for a short time. Then, the clear, rosecoloured must, with 20° Babo of sugar, is drawn off. No pressing, as usual. Fermentation takes place in steel tanks at a controlled temperature of 26°C. Finally, the sugar content as well as the temperature of fermentation give the wine its name.

“With liveliness, freshness and juiciness, the wine presents itself in charming salmon colors and an attractive design. Lagrein, Pinot Noir and Merlot maintain their status at its core, with pronounced flavors of raspberries, strawberries and bright citrus notes, with impeccable texture and lovely finesse.” -Elena Walch