# Langhe Chardonnay (2023)

- **Producer:** Azienda Agricola Lodali Walter
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Piemonte, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €19
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–8 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** apple, lemon, peach, vanilla, cloves

## About this wine

The Lodali Langhe Chardonnay is a white wine from the Langhe DOC in Piedmont, Italy, made from 100% Chardonnay grapes. Azienda Agricola Lodali Walter, a family winery with a three-generation history, produces this wine. The Langhe region, traditionally known for red wines, is also recognized for its capacity to express terroir with international varietals. The winery's philosophy emphasizes grape quality and the expression of the land.

## Interesting facts

- Langhe DOC allows for international grape varieties, a departure from traditional Piedmontese appellations.
- Angelo Gaja planted the first Chardonnay vines in Langhe in 1979.
- The Langhe region is a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its wine culture.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium+ body and balanced acidity make it versatile. It can complement the richness of creamy sauces and the delicate flavors of fish and poultry. The acidity helps to cut through richer elements, while the wine's character can stand up to moderately complex dishes.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Lodali Langhe Chardonnay begins with destemming and crushing the Chardonnay grapes. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature of around 17°C for approximately 20 days. Notably, 70% of the fermentation occurs in steel tanks, while the remaining 30% is fermented in new small Allier barrels. Prior to fermentation, there is a 24-hour skin contact period at a low temperature of 5°C. Following fermentation, the wine is aged in stainless steel tanks and spends 2 months in bottle, with additional refining time. Some information also indicates a 3-month aging period in oak casks.