Elena Walch – Aton Pinot Noir Riserva 2018
Alto Adige DOC, Italy – 100% Pinot Noir
A timeless expression of finesse and elegance.
The Aton Pinot Noir Riserva 2018 is a masterpiece by Elena Walch, produced in an extremely limited edition of only 2,788 bottles. The name 'Aton' refers to the Egyptian sun god and symbolizes light, life and perfection. This wine comes from carefully selected vineyards at 400–600 meters altitude in Glen and Barleith, with vines up to 61 years old. The combination of clay and chalky soils and the cool climate of Alto Adige makes for a Pinot Noir of exceptional quality.
Tasting notes
In the glass, the wine presents itself with a bright, ruby red color. The nose is complex and refined, with aromas of blackcurrant, a hint of licorice and subtle smoky notes. On the palate, the wine is elegant and fresh, with polished fruit notes, fine and fresh tannins and a long, spicy finish.
Reviews & Awards
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96 points – Falstaff : "Elegant, bright ruby red colour. On the nose subtle notes of cranberries, wet pebbles, juicy blood oranges, wild strawberries and a little cold tea. Elegant and fresh on the palate, with polished fruit, still some young tannins at the moment, beautifully long."
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94 points – The Wine Advocate : "The 2018 Alto Adige Pinot Noir Riserva Aton reveals a slightly evolved character, with dried fruit, red berries, strawberry jam and a hint of wild licorice root. Aton is very silky on the palate and slender in the mid-palate, with a delicate and light sense for lasting elegance."
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4.4/5 stars – Vivino users : “This wine has notes of black cherry, blackberry, smoke, forest floor and leather, with a soft texture and a long, elegant finish.”
Vinification & Maturation
The grapes were hand-harvested and underwent a cold maceration of 5 days, followed by fermentation at 23°C for 15 days. The wine was then aged for 12 months in medium-toasted French oak barriques and a further 11 months in stainless steel tanks, before being bottled without filtration on 4 November 2020. The wine was released after 15 months of bottle ageing.
Food pairing
This elegant Pinot Noir is a great match for grilled beef, veal entrecote or a duck breast salad. Also delicious with game dishes and soft cheeses.
Particulars
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Limited production: only 2,788 bottles
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From older vines (up to 61 years old)
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Maturation potential until 2035 and beyond
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Available in a luxury wooden box (OWC) with 3 bottles of 0.75 L
Serving advice
Serve this wine slightly chilled (16–18°C) in a large glass to allow the complex aromas to fully develop. Decant if possible to allow the wine to breathe and reveal its full potential