Blanc de Castel Cuvée Mitterberg IGT 2023 - Schloss Englar x 6

Why the winemaker recommends the 2023 Cuvée Blanc de Castel Mitterberg IGT from Schloss Englar

The Blanc de Castel Mitterberg IGT is a white wine of extraordinary alpine elegance, crafted by the historic Schloss Englar winery. This unique cuvée is a harmonious blend of three grape varieties that achieve world-class expression in the Alto Adige region: the verticality and crispness of Riesling (50%), the smooth body of Pinot Blanc (24%), and the vibrant aromatic profile of Sauvignon Blanc (24%). This artisanal and highly limited release yields only 8,328 bottles, sourced from Guyot-trained vineyards nestled between 450 and 550 meters above sea level on gravelly, clay-limestone soils.

Winemaking: The Art of Balance

To respect the distinct ripening times of each grape variety, harvesting and vinification are carried out separately. The Pinot Blanc is fermented in oak tonneaux to introduce structure, depth, and complexity. Meanwhile, the Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc ferment exclusively in stainless steel tanks to preserve their pristine freshness and varietal typicity. Following fermentation, the young wines are masterfully blended to achieve seamless harmony, subsequently aging for 7 months on the fine lees before being bottled in May.

Tasting Notes: Alpine Freshness and Minerality

In the glass, the Cuvée Blanc de Castel 2023 reveals a complex and captivating bouquet, where lush fruity aromas of peach and apricot intertwine with elegant floral hints of elderflower and rose petals. On the palate, it is remarkably refined, vibrant, and precise, driven by a crisp mineral core that beautifully extends the finish. While showing incredible immediate appeal, this white wine possesses the structure to age gracefully over the next 3 to 5 years.

Food Pairings and Sommelier Service Tips

Thanks to its youthful energy and bright, lively acidity, this white blend by Schloss Englar makes a perfect choice for an upscale aperitif. At the dinner table, it pairs wonderfully with delicate appetizers, vegetarian dishes, fresh seafood, and poultry. Its clean, refreshing finish also makes it an outstanding companion for Japanese cuisine, specifically enhancing the subtle flavors of sushi and sashimi.

We recommend serving it chilled at an optimal temperature of 10–12°C in a medium-sized white wine glass.

The Story behind the 2023 Vintage at Schloss Englar

The 2023 vintage was characterized by distinctly extreme weather in Alto Adige. A dry start to the season triggered an early bud break, followed by a cool spring and a humid summer with frequent rainfall. These conditions demanded meticulous canopy management and constant dedication in the vineyards to safeguard grape health. Fortunately, a dry autumn followed, bringing warm days and chilly nights that provided textbook conditions for the harvest. The result is a beautifully fresh and fruit-forward vintage, delivering wines of superb agility that proudly reflect their alpine origins.