Girlan Alto Adige Platt & Riegl Pinot Bianco 2024

This pristine Pinot Bianco is drawn from some of Girlan’s highest and most esteemed vineyards in Cornaiano and Eppan Berg at nosebleed altitudes of 600 metres in the gravelly, mineral-rich soils of the Appiano Monte. Here, in the lee of snow-capped Mount Mendola, the sun-drenched, rocky soils and elevation make a considerable contribution to the style of the wine, as do the old vines, hand-harvesting, partial malolactic conversion and partial vinification in large oak (50% in 5,000-litre cask). These influences result in a more satin-textured, mineral wine than you typically expect from this variety. Think a cracking combination of chalky white stone fruits, citrus and mountain-stream freshness with a long, piercing, fragrant palate shot through with refreshing salty nuance and grapefruit bitterness. Top class.