Gewürztraminer Sonnenglanz Grand Cru 2017

Wine Description for Gewürztraminer Sonnenglanz Grand Cru 2017 by Trapet Alsace

Colour & Appearance

Radiant, luminous golden yellow in the glass – the colour alone already promises the aromatic intensity that this Grand Cru then delivers.

Nose

An almost exuberant, yet never intrusive bouquet: rose petals and hibiscus meet the delicate scent of Earl Grey tea, whilst beneath them layers of apricot, orange zest, orange liqueur and marzipan unfold. This complexity is impressive – a Gewürztraminer that demonstrates what the variety can achieve on chalky terroir.

Palate

Here the true class of this wine reveals itself: despite noticeable residual sweetness, the 2017 is remarkably precise and structured. The balance between sweetness and acidity is almost perfectly calibrated and lends the wine a liveliness that one doesn’t always find in Gewürztraminer. Indeed, the finesse and structure recall a fine Riesling – which for a Gewürztraminer is the highest compliment. Yet the varietal aromatics remain completely intact.

Finish

Long, spicy and with lingering citrus notes and floral echoes that resonate for minutes afterwards.

Terroir & Origin

The Sonnenglanz lies north-west of the village at 220-270 metres elevation with south-easterly exposure. The extraordinary microclimate with less than 500 mm rainfall per year and the chalky soil composed of tertiary conglomerate, interspersed with marls from the Eocene-Oligocene, create ideal conditions for Gewürztraminer with depth and precision.

Food Pairing Suggestions

A versatile companion: excellent with chestnut ravioli with pear and duck liver, but also with baked Bleu d’Auvergne on kumquat ragout. The combination of sweetness and structure makes it the ideal partner for creative cuisine – from Asian dishes to spiced cheese variations.

Special Features

A Grand Cru that proves Alsace continues to set standards for Gewürztraminer. Trapet Alsace succeeds in combining the variety’s characteristic opulence with Riesling-like elegance – a remarkable balancing act.