Alsace Gewurtztraminer VT 2020 Domaine Hebinger

The Gewurztraminer Vendanges Tardives 2020 from Famille Hebinger is a delicately sweet wine of elegance and lightness, made from Gewurztraminer grown on argilo-calcareous soils around Eguisheim, harvested in over-ripeness. Born from long fermentation with indigenous yeasts, it shows a refined roundness that carries aromas of fresh fruit, Corinth raisins and soft spices.

Terroir and vines

The Gewurztraminer comes from argilo-calcareous soils around Eguisheim, a picturesque village on Alsace's wine route. Grapes are hand-harvested late, after over-ripening that concentrates their sugars and aromas. Vinification is a long fermentation with indigenous yeasts, producing a liqueur of great finesse. Ageing takes place on fine lees before bottling. The domaine is run according to biodynamic principles, certified since the 2009 harvest.

Tasting profile

The colour is luminous gold with amber reflections. The nose shows fine intensity: the varietal aromas of rose and lychee are lifted by over-ripening, with exotic fruits, honey and soft spices. The palate is elegant and round yet without heaviness, carried by freshness that balances the richness. Fresh fruit, Corinth raisins and soft spices unfold with delicacy. The finish is long and suave, where terroir dominates the varietal character.

The domaine

Based in Eguisheim, close to the historic centre, the domaine is run by Christian and Véronique Hebinger, joined by their son Denis. Christian took over the family estate in 1985 and applies biodynamic principles throughout the vineyard. The domaine's wines, from Sylvaner to the Grands Crus, strike for their balance, purity and expression of terroir, with renowned Vendanges Tardives and Sélections de Grains Nobles.

Food pairings

This Vendange Tardive pairs well with fresh goat cheese, blue cheese soufflé, foie gras, creamed farmyard poultry or exotic fruit tart. Served between 10 and 12°C, enjoy it now for its brightness, or cellar it for around twenty years.