Lake Kaltern Classico Superiore Per Sé

Kalterersee as a serious matter: Elena Walch's Per Sé shows what the Vernatsch grape can achieve from the South Tyrolean classic region when taken seriously in the vineyard and cellar.

The Elena Walch winery is one of the most famous addresses in South Tyrol. Based in Tramin on the Wine Road, the family cultivates single-vineyard wines on porphyry and limestone — soils that bring structure and minerality to the wine. Only those who use grapes from the strictly defined classic region around Lake Kaltern and meet minimum alcohol and aging requirements can call themselves Kalterersee Classico Superiore — a DOC quality level with high standards.

In the glass, fresh ruby red. The nose shows sour cherry and violets, plus white pepper and a hint of dark chocolate. On the palate, light-weight with fine-grained tannins and lively acidity — typical for Vernatsch, which, when from a good source, never seems massive, but fluid. The finish is dry and pleasantly tart.

• Tasting & Serving: 14–16 °C
• Tasting & Serving: South Tyrolean speck, grilled sausage, pasta with tomato sauce, or light mushroom dishes