Elioro Chardonnay Langhe DOC 2022 - Cordero di Montezemolo x 3

Terroir and Heritage of Chardonnay Elioro®

The Langhe DOC Chardonnay Elioro® from Cordero di Montezemolo embodies one of the most complex and long-lived white wine expressions within the Langhe region. The name derives from ancient Greek, meaning "hill of the sun", referencing the exceptional exposure of the estate plot located in the historical Annunziata sub-zone of La Morra. This hillside amphitheater enjoys a unique microclimate: it captures the early morning sun and the final evening rays, benefiting from a daily sun distribution far superior to neighboring ridges. This agronomical factor allows the grapes to achieve peak phenolic ripeness while fully protecting a refined mineral tension.

Agronomic Features and Fine Lees Maturation

Planted in 1987, Elioro was born from Giovanni Montezemolo's visionary gamble on an international variety, aiming to craft a premium white capable of challenging time alongside the appellation's renowned reds. In the cellar, following a gentle pressing, the must undergoes fermentation and partial malolactic conversion directly inside small French oak barrels. The maturation pathway enforces an extended resting period on the fine lees for several months, driven by systematic bâtonnage routines to encourage cell lysis and add texture to the volume, completing the cycle with an additional year of bottle stabilization.

Sensory profile of Chardonnay

The synergy between the limestone-clay matrix of the Annunziata vineyard and disciplined small-barrel maturation shapes a clean organoleptic identity with extensive structural depth.

• Appellation, Blend and ABV: 100% Chardonnay / Langhe DOC / 13.50% ABV.
• Visual Presentation: Intense, luminous golden yellow color, showing excellent structural density and rich extract upon swirling.
• Aromatic Bouquet: Broad and deeply complex nose, showcasing dominant notes of ripe yellow-fleshed fruits, candied citrus, and distinct hints of flint, complemented by elegant undertones of toasted hazelnuts, melted butter, and pastry hints.
• Palate Texture: Dry, full-bodied, and welcoming on the entry. The mid-palate delivers a velvety framework where a persistent mineral salinity and a vibrant acidity driven by origin lead into a tensed, precise, and highly persistent finish.

Food Pairings and Serving Recommendations

The rich structural fullness and crisp framework of this oaked Chardonnay demand complex, savory dishes capable of complementing its structural depth.

• Classic Pairings: Pairs naturally with rich baked or grilled fish courses, shellfish, stewed lobster, and structured Mediterranean pasta options. It serves as an ideal match for complex refined appetizers, white meats, vegetable terrines, and savory or blue soft cheeses.
• Serving Conditions: To ensure accurate structural balance and allow the complex aromatic layers to unfold completely, serve at a steady chilled temperature of 12 - 14°C.

Cellaring Potential and Storage Guidelines

This cellaring white wine displays outstanding complexity and monumental longevity upon release, possessing a continuous evolution window that allows it to develop beautifully over several years in the bottle. To secure correct tertiary development, store the bottle horizontally in a dark cellar environment, away from sudden temperature fluctuations.