One of Italy’s most exciting white wines, a blend of mostly Chardonnay with whichever grape varieties Elena Walch decides to pick in a particular vintage, which is dictated by what the spectacular Castel Ringberg vineyard has to offer in a particular year, similar to a chef picking seasonal vegetables from the market. Beyond the Clouds 2021 displays a brilliant silver/gold colour in the glass and the nose offers a beguiling interplay of tropical, floral, honey and woody aromas. The palate is creamy and complex, a really satisfying ‘grand vin’ for special occasions. 14% alc. Drink now-2032.

Press review:

Decanter (previous vintage): "From one of Italy's most exciting winemakers comes this flagship field blend. Primarily Chardonnay with about 20% of other grapes from the Castel Ringberg vineyard, co-fermented in French oak barriques with partial malolactic then 10 months of ageing on the lees. It's a superb wine: textured, creamy, complex, dripping with dried pineapple, honeycomb and stone fruit aromas and flavours. Long, juicy and fresh, this is drinkable now (try to resist!) but is also renowned for its ageability. Drink now-2035." 94 points

The Wine Advocate (previous vintage): “This is the estate's Grande Cuvée. A celebrated blend of mostly Chardonnay and other fragrant varieties, the Elena Walch 2020 Alto Adige Beyond the Clouds is a generous, mid-weight white with sweet aromas of honey, candied fruit, pastry cream and lemon mousse. Delicate mineral tones turn the wine over to more nuanced flavors and long-lasting intensity. Soft spice adds to the wine's broad and open texture. Drink now-2028.“ 94 points