In the glass
Aroma: wild strawberry, violet, almond blossom, fresh herbs
Palate: red cherry, soft tannins, fresh acidity, saline lift
Cantina Kaltern's flagship Quintessenz-line Kalterersee Classico Superiore from the lake's western shore. Light-bodied, fragrant and saline; positioned as the contemporary Kalterersee selection from the cellar.
What it pairs with
-
Speck and rye bread plate
Schiava is the classical Tyrolean Brettljause pairing; the wine's freshness slices through cured pork fat. -
Schluetzkrapfen with brown butter
Tyrolean ravioli pairs naturally with Schiava; the wine's red cherry register echoes the brown butter. -
Chicken liver pate
Schiava's soft tannin and bright fruit balance pate's richness without overwhelming the delicacy.
History
Cantina Kaltern launched the Quintessenz selection line in the mid-2010s as the cooperative's response to Schiava's renaissance and the broader rediscovery of fragrant alpine reds. The Kalterersee Classico Superiore is the line's signature wine.
- 2014 — Quintessenz line launched at Cantina Kaltern
Facts
- Producer
- Cantina Kaltern
- Grapes
- Schiava (100%)
- Classification
- DOC Alto Adige Lago di Caldaro Classico Superiore
- Oak
- Approximately six months in large oak and stainless steel on the lees
- ABV
- 12.5%
- Price
- EUR 18 to 28 at retail
- Drinking window
- 1 to 6 from vintage
- First vintage
- 2014
Frequently asked about Quintessenz Kalterersee Classico Superiore
What does Quintessenz Kalterersee taste like?
Wild strawberry, violet, almond blossom and fresh herbs on the nose; red cherry, soft tannins, fresh acidity and a saline lift on the palate. Light-bodied with low tannin.
When should I drink Quintessenz Kalterersee?
Drink within 1 to 6 years of vintage. Schiava is at its best while the fragrant red fruit is vibrant; serve slightly chilled (12-14C) like a Beaujolais.
What food pairs with Quintessenz?
Speck and rye bread, Schluetzkrapfen with brown butter, or chicken liver pate. The wine's freshness suits Tyrolean charcuterie and lighter pastas.
What grapes are in Quintessenz Kalterersee?
100 percent Schiava (Vernatsch) from vineyards on the western shore of Lake Caldaro. The Classico Superiore designation requires minimum 11.5 percent alcohol and stricter vineyard sourcing.