Alsace Gewurztraminer Grand Cru Sonnenglanz VT 2017 Domaine Bott-Geyl

The Alsace Gewurztraminer Grand Cru Sonnenglanz Vendanges Tardives 2017 from Domaine Bott Geyl is a sweet Grand Cru Gewurztraminer, smooth, complex and balanced, with luxuriant aromas and an elegant palate. Sonnenglanz, meaning "the sun's brilliance", gives this Vendange Tardive exceptional ripeness, which the freshness of the limestone terroir keeps perfectly digestible.

Terroir and vines

The Sonnenglanz Grand Cru covers 33 hectares in the commune of Beblenheim, on a gentle south east facing slope of 10 to 15 percent, between 220 and 270 metres above sea level. The soil is marl and limestone, made of limestone pebble conglomerates and Oligocene marls. Its exposure and a particularly dry microclimate make it a prime site for Gewurztraminer and Pinot Gris. The vineyard has been farmed organically since 2000 and biodynamically since 2002, without synthetic products and at low yields. For this Vendange Tardive, the grapes are hand harvested at full overripeness, in successive pickings. Vinification is natural and minimal: the slow fermentation uses indigenous yeasts, with no enzymes, chaptalisation or fining, and the wine is then aged on fine lees. The estate's Vendanges Tardives are held back for two to three additional years in bottle in the cellar before release.

Tasting profile

The colour is an intense, bright gold. The nose is rich and complex, combining candied citrus peel, rose, lychee, ripe exotic fruit, honey and spice, with a hint of pepper. On the palate the wine is full, smooth and unctuous, with a generous sweetness balanced by lovely freshness, with a silky texture and great elegance. The finish is long, spiced and honeyed.

The estate

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 and to biodynamics in 2002. The domaine covers around fifteen hectares, including six Grands Crus, four lieux dits and one historic clos, and its Vendanges Tardives are among the most critically acclaimed wines in its range.

Food and wine pairing

This Vendange Tardive pairs well with seared or terrine foie gras, spiced or sweet and sour dishes, blue veined cheeses, and strong cheeses such as Munster, Époisses or Ami du Chambertin, as well as spiced desserts. It is also a pleasure on its own. Serve at 8 to 9 °C, after decanting. It can be enjoyed now, or kept for ten to fifteen years.