The 2009 Chardonnay Kreuth is impressive. I have seldom encountered an Alto Adige Chardonnay where fruit, structure and terroir are all so beautifully balanced. Layers of tropical fruit and spices are supported by insistent layers of saline minerality. The polished finish is like a breath of fresh Alpine air. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019. These new releases from Cantina di Terlano are impressive. As much as I admire the top wines, I simply adore the entry-level bottlings for their unbeatable combination of quality, value and regional/varietal typicity.Importer: Banville & Jones Wine Merchants, New York, NY; tel. (212) 268-0906

The 2008 Chardonnay Kreuth sparkles on the palate with ripe, tropical fruit, spices and minerals. All of the elements come together beautifully in this expressive, nuanced Chardonnay. This is yet another fabulous wine for the money. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2018. The most impressive wines I tasted this year from Alto Adige came from Cantina di Terlano. Simply put, these are reference point wines. I can’t imagine these wines not being represented in any serious cellar.Importer: Banville & Jones Wine Merchants, New York, NY; tel. (204) 294-4899