Reviewed by Monica Larner for The Wine Advocate – published on Dec 8th (December 2022 Week 1)
91 Vom Kalk Chardonnay Südtirol DOC 2019
With a little drawing of an owl on the front label, the Ignaz Niedrist 2019 Alto Adige Chardonnay vom Kalk is flinty and bright with sharp aromas of lemon, crisp apple and crushed stone. This is a very vertical and focused expression of Chardonnay that stands apart from all the softer, creamier expressions of the grape found around the world. Made in a more reductive style, this wine faithfully reflects its cool-climate Dolomite roots. This is a 2,000-bottle production.
92 Vom Kalk Blauburgunder Südtirol DOC 2018
The Ignaz Niedrist 2018 Alto Adige Blauburgunder Pinot Nero vom Kalk is a fine and subtle red wine with dried violet, lilac and crisp forest berry. At its core, the wine shows plenty of red and purple fruits that are all framed by delicate floral tones, candied orange skin and white licorice. You also get hints of dried herb and mint. This is a 2,000-bottle production.
92 Lagrein Berger Gei Riserva DOC 2018
With inky concentration, the 2018 Alto Adige Lagrein Gries Riserva Berger Gei feels ripe and heavy on the palate with dark plum and dried blackberry. With a little time in the glass, the wine shows black olive and tarry smoke, and there is sweetness here too, with barbecue spice. Some 7,500 bottles were released.