Elena Walch Pinot Bianco Alto Adige 2020

Many of the top wines of the Alto Adige actually come from Pinot Grigio’s less popular cousin – Pinot Bianco. I’ve done this a million times – brown bag a bottle of each and taste test blind with your favorite Pinot Grigio drinker. A well-made Bianco wins every time. Once you’ve tasted their light, peachy flavors it’s easy to see why.

Elena Walch is arguably the queen of a region that is not short on amazing winegrowers. She bought and runs the winery with her daughters. It is an entirely woman owned and operated winery.. and they are busy! Each vintage, the trio makes over 30 different wines! Gewurztraminer, Lagrein, Pinot Bianco, Muller Thurgau – just to name a few.

And their wines are annually recognized as some of the best white wines in the world. Leading the charge is their flagship white, “Beyond the Clouds” which has garnered 98 point scores four years running and has helped her extend her reach well beyond the tiny Italian town.

But it’s her Pinot Bianco that may be the best example of the varietal I’ve ever had. Bristling with energy and super light in color, with a seductive nose that boasts ripe aromas of citrus, green apple and a fresh floral bouquet. Made entirely in stainless steel, the wine is expressive, fresh and finishes as clean and tight as can be.