Curlan Chardonnay Riserva Alto Adige DOC 2022 - Girlan

The Parcel Selection and Pedoclimatic Framework of CURLAN Chardonnay Riserva

The CURLAN Chardonnay Riserva DOC represents the culmination of a rigorous technical investigation conducted by Cantina Girlan, developed through years of agronomic sampling and experimental micro-vinifications on very small lots. This white Riserva originates from only two historic plots carefully selected within the sub-zone of Cornaiano, located on the celebrated hills of "Gschleier" and "Schreckbichl" at an altitude ranging between 450 and 500 meters above sea level. The vineyards, covering an extremely limited total surface area of 1 hectare, benefit from a dual eastern and western exposure. The vines, aged between 20 and 25 years, take root in light soils rich in gravel and morainic deposits resting on a solid volcanic porphyry base—elements that guarantee constant ventilation and a distinct mineral quality.

Enological Protocol: Whole-Cluster Pressing and Combined Sur Lie Aging

The processing of the 2022 vintage applies rigorous technological criteria oriented toward maximum protection of the aromatic bouquet. The manual harvest is performed in early October upon reaching perfect phenolic maturity, using small bins to protect the clusters. In the cellar, a gentle whole-cluster pressing is performed immediately, followed by must clarification via natural cold settling. The primary fermentation cycle and malolactic conversion take place inside barriques for 12 months, distributed between one-third (33%) of new oak and two-thirds (66%) of used oak. Subsequently, the mass faces an 8-month aging path in stainless steel tanks on the fine lees (*sur lie*), completing the cycle with a 12-month rest in glass before its release.

Sensory Profile of CURLAN Trentino Alto Adige white wine

The interaction between the porphyry slopes of Cornaiano and the extended, structured contact with French small oak and stainless steel outlines an organoleptic framework of extraordinary breadth and tertiary depth.

• Blend and Classification: 100% Chardonnay / Alto Adige DOC / Selected Cru Riserva.
• Analytical Data (2022 Vintage): Alcohol Content: 14.50% Vol. / Aging: 12 months in barriques, 8 months in stainless steel, and 12 months in the bottle.
• Visual Assessment: Intense golden yellow color, limpid and endowed with a dense texture and splendid chromatic brilliance upon swirling in the glass.
• Olfactory Framework: Broad, intense, and markedly complex bouquet. Consistent notes of fresh citrus, ripe yellow peach, and flint stand out on the nose, embellished by elegant hints of toasted hazelnut and melted butter derived from the noble oak.
• Palate Characteristics: The tasting reveals a dry, elegant profile endowed with a complex architecture. The progression displays a full and enveloping body, enlivened by a beautiful freshness and a persistent mineral sapidity that guides the development toward a long and persistent finish.

Service Guidelines and Gastronomic Pairings

The thickness of the texture, the acid balance, and the complexity of this Chardonnay Riserva make it an ideal companion for flavor-rich dishes and complex, refined menus.

• Stable Pairings: It pairs with absolute elegance alongside rich baked or grilled fish dishes, stewed crustaceans, and structured first courses of the Mediterranean tradition. It finds an excellent match with complex appetizers based on delicate white meats, vegetable terrines, and saporous soft cheeses.
• Serving Method: To promote the development of the rich aromatic framework and maintain gustatory balance, a serving temperature of 10 - 12°C is recommended.

Evolutionary Potential and Storage

The CURLAN Chardonnay Riserva displays solid and monumental longevity, possessing an aging potential in the cellar that easily extends beyond 10 years in the bottle. Horizontal bottle storage is recommended in a completely dark environment, free from environmental vibrations and at a constant temperature.