2005 St. Michael-Eppan, Pinot Grigio “St. Valentin”, Alto Adige, Italy
The winery St. Michael-Eppan was founded in 1907 in Alto Adige and strongly connected since many years with the winemaker Hans Terzer. His white wines from the brand “Sanct Valentin” like Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Sauvignon and Gewürztraminer are considered one of the best italian white wines. The Pinot Grigio comes from selected vineyards in the area Appiano and the vines are 25-40 years old. Fermentation in barrique, 1/3 new and 2/3 old. Elegant perfume of pears and vanilla. Vibrating, racy and also a certain amplitude. Breathtaking structure, complexity and clarity for a Pinot Grigio. Pears, blossoms, herbs and hazelnut.The wine needs 2 more years to reach the climax, as the oak notes are a bit too dominant at the moment.
Also the Sauvignon I strongly recommend.