LUI XXI, Komet Blanco IGT 2021

A Sauvignon Blanc with tension and depth, showing an intense golden yellow colour. A stony, earthy reduction dominates at first, opening after decanting into a carafe to reveal Boskop apple, apricot and vineyard peach, alongside wild herbs such as sage, wild fennel and pepper.

Margreid, in the southernmost part of South Tyrol, where Mediterranean influences meet alpine coolness. The Löwengang estate, acquired in 1934, remains the heart of the winery to this day, now led by Clemens Lageder in the sixth generation. The 55 hectares of estate vineyards have been farmed biodynamically since 2004; since 2024 the roughly 60 contracted growers have also been working organically or biodynamically.

Sauvignon Blanc, harvested on 25 August. About 40 percent of the grapes went into spontaneous fermentation as whole clusters, partly crushed, while around 60 percent were pressed directly. After five days the wine was racked and pressed, then everything was combined into a single batch in a 13-hl oak cask. There the wine finished fermenting, underwent malolactic conversion and rested on full lees for about eleven months. It was bottled unfiltered in August 2022.

Vibrant freshness and great vivacity, carried by fine salinity and juicy creaminess. Power without heaviness: the spice stays delicate, drinkability is excellent, and the alcohol sits at 11.5% vol.

Part of the experimental Komet line, through which Clemens Lageder questions the dogmas of winemaking. Rather than a classic vintage designation, the bottle carries the Roman numeral XXI, while the label notes the biodynamic farming. The bottled quantity is limited.