Alsace Gewurztraminer Grand Cru Sonnenglanz 2017 Domaine Bott-Geyl

The Alsace Gewurztraminer Grand Cru Sonnenglanz 2017 from Domaine Bott-Geyl is a rich and aromatic Grand Cru Gewurztraminer that captures the essence of Alsace: exotic fruit, honey and a lingering touch of spice, held in a luxurious texture. A complex, full and generous wine, its sweetness is balanced by a freshness that keeps it remarkably easy to drink.

Terroir and vineyards

The Sonnenglanz Grand Cru covers 33 hectares on the commune of Beblenheim, on a gentle south east facing slope of 10 to 15%, between 220 and 270 metres above sea level. The soil is a marl and limestone mix, made of limestone pebble conglomerates and Oligocene marls. Its exposure and a particularly dry microclimate make it an ideal site for Gewurztraminer and Pinot Gris. The vineyard has been farmed organically since 2000 and biodynamically since 2002, with low yields and hand harvested, sorted grapes. Vinification is natural and minimal: fermentation at controlled temperature with indigenous yeasts, without enzymes, chaptalisation or fining, followed by ageing on fine lees. The domaine's Grand Crus are held for several months, and sometimes years, in bottle before release.

Tasting profile

The colour is a bright gold. The nose is intense, with notes of peach compote, exotic fruit, lychee, rose, candied lemon, mandarin peel, honey and spice. On the palate the wine is rich, creamy and full, its sweetness balanced by a fine acidity, with floral nuances, energy and depth. The finish is intense and long, with real character.

The domaine

Heir to a family tradition dating back to 1795, Jean Christophe Bott has run Domaine Bott-Geyl in Beblenheim since 1993. He converted the estate to organic farming in 2000, then to biodynamics in 2002. The domaine covers around fifteen hectares across several Grand Crus, including Sonnenglanz, Schoenenbourg and Mandelberg, as well as several lieux dits, producing full, supple wines of well controlled richness, never heavy.

Food and wine pairing

This Grand Cru Gewurztraminer pairs well with pan seared or terrine foie gras, sweetbreads, spicy or sweet and sour dishes, blue veined cheeses, and strong cheeses such as Munster, Époisses or Ami du Chambertin, or with spiced desserts. Served at 8 to 9 °C, after a short spell in a decanter, it can be enjoyed now or kept for around fifteen years.