K. Martini & Sohn, Sauvignon Blanc Alte Reben Vecchie Vigne 2018

K. Martini & Sohn is a family-run winery in Alto Adige, a region renowned for producing expressive and aromatic white wines. Established in 1979, the estate is committed to sustainable viticulture and precise winemaking, ensuring that each wine reflects the unique alpine terroir. The 2018 vintage benefited from a warm yet balanced growing season, allowing for full ripeness while maintaining the vibrant acidity that defines high-quality Sauvignon Blanc.

Alte Reben Vecchie Vigne translates to “old vines,” highlighting that this Sauvignon Blanc is sourced from some of the winery’s oldest vineyards. These deep-rooted vines, planted in mineral-rich soils at high elevations, produce lower yields but result in wines with greater concentration, complexity, and depth. The wine is fermented in stainless steel to preserve its fresh aromatics and undergoes extended lees ageing to enhance texture and structure.

Appearance: Bright straw yellow with golden reflections, shimmering with clarity. The wine’s slight viscosity hints at its richness, while its luminous brightness suggests freshness and precision. As it swirls in the glass, it shows a smooth movement, reflecting its refined texture.

Aroma: Intensely aromatic, with vibrant notes of passion fruit, grapefruit, and green apple. Floral hints of elderflower and citrus blossom add elegance, while underlying herbal tones of fresh sage, tomato leaf, and wet stone provide depth. A subtle smoky and flinty character emerges as the wine opens, reflecting its old-vine complexity.

Taste: Medium-bodied and richly textured, with layers of citrus, tropical fruit, and fresh herbs. Lemon zest, white peach, and gooseberry lead the palate, supported by a crisp mineral backbone. The extended lees ageing adds a refined creaminess, balancing the zesty acidity while giving the wine a rounded mouthfeel. A hint of saline and crushed rock enhances its structure, creating an intriguing interplay between freshness and depth.

Finish: Long and persistent, with lingering citrus, white flowers, and a delicate herbal note. A final whisper of flint and saline minerality leaves a refined and elegant impression, making it both refreshing and complex.

Food Pairing: A perfect match for seafood dishes such as grilled lobster or scallops with a citrus butter sauce, where the wine’s acidity and texture complement the richness of the dish. It also pairs beautifully with goat cheese and asparagus risotto, enhancing its herbal and mineral notes. For a plant-based option, try it with a green pea and mint salad, where the wine’s freshness mirrors the dish’s bright flavours.