2020 Colterenzio Chardonnay Lafoa Alto Adige

In 1960, 26 daring winegrowers from Colterenzio founded their cooperative, cutting ties with the established wine merchants. Their act of defiance led to the birth of a cooperative named after their cherished homeland, Schreckbichl (Colterenzio in Italian). 

Taking the reins in 1979, Luis Raifer, a visionary winegrower, returned from California with grand aspirations. South Tyrol was primarily a red wine region in the 1980s, with mediocre quality. Raifer saw the untapped potential: abundant vineyard land, hard-working skilled winegrowers, and ideal terroir. On his vineyard, "Lafóa," he replaced Vernatsch vines with Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc, setting new quality standards of lower yields for superior grapes and wines.

The heart of Cantina Colterenzio lies in its 300 partner winegrowers, like Rudi Mayr, Evelyn Hanni, Manfred Klotz, and Margareth Marchetti. They nurture vines year-round with dedication, providing top-quality grapes each autumn.

Harmonizing with nature isn't limited to the vineyards. In 2009, the cellar transformed. It now runs on renewable energy, with a photovoltaic power station covering 55% of its needs. Solar panels and a heat recovery system provide 70% of the hot water required. Sustainability and energy self-sufficiency drive their operations.

"Lafóa" signifies the dawn of Alto Adige's quality movement. Luis Raifer's pioneering spirit created a legacy that endures. Lafóa wines are full-bodied, elegant, and possess remarkable aging potential.

2020 Colterenzio Chardonnay Lafoa Alto Adige. It's a wine that encapsulates innovation and quality. With ripe apple, citrus, and a hint of vanilla notes, it offers a crisp, vibrant palate and a memorable finish. This Chardonnay is a tribute to the winemakers' dedication and Alto Adige's unique terroir.

Aging: 10 months sur lies.

100% Chardonnay. Of a pale intense straw yellow color tinged with green nuances; a full but well-integrated wine, imbued with honeydew melon, creamy fruit salad, and nutty aromas; ample acidity with a delicate underlay of oak on the palate and a long, luscious finish. 

Wonderfully fresh nose of tarte au citron with just a whiff of vanilla bean. At once concentrated and very elegant, this is unquestionably one of the great chardonnays of Italy. Stunning balance at the very long and precise, nutty finish that has so much energy! Plenty of aging potential here. Drink or hold. ~95 James Suckling

Brilliant straw yellow with green reflections. On the nose, there are tropical fruits of pineapple, banana and hazelnuts before a light smokey tone. Impressive and grippy in the drink, with dense creaminess and pronounced length to the finish. ~93 Falstaff

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