Gewürztraminer Steingrubler Grand Cru 2020

Wine Description for Gewürztraminer Steingrubler Grand Cru 2022 from Domaine Albert Mann

Character

The Domaine Albert Mann ranks among Alsace’s flagship estates and has managed its vineyard sites biodynamically for decades. This Gewürztraminer from the Grand Cru site Steingrubler embodies the aromatic opulence of the variety in its more elegant facet. With moderate residual sweetness, the wine balances expressive fruit against the mineral freshness that characterises the terroir. The 2022 vintage produced precise, clear wines in Alsace – less lavish than in hot years, yet with remarkable tension.

Terroir & Origin

The Steingrubler lies south-west of Wettolsheim on calcareous soils with significant limestone content. This geological composition imparts a characteristic mineral structure to the wines and tempers the natural opulence of Gewürztraminer. The southerly aspect and sheltered location provide optimal ripening conditions, whilst the elevation preserves cooling influences. The family-run Mann estate tends its parcels with meticulous care – biodynamic viticulture is not marketing here, but a lived philosophy since the 1990s.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Gewürztraminer is Alsace’s polarising diva – either beloved for its intense aromatics of lychee, rose and exotic spices or shunned for perceived obtrusiveness. At Albert Mann, the variety reveals its more refined side: biodynamic viticulture and careful hand-harvesting guarantee physiologically ripe grapes. Vinification follows traditional methods, with spontaneous fermentation and slow maturation, which lends the wine depth and complexity. At 13.5% alcohol, the wine sits in a moderate range, with the moderate residual sweetness balanced by natural acidity.

Food Pairing Recommendations

This Gewürztraminer is the classic companion to Alsatian cuisine: outstanding with Munster cheese, Foie Gras or Baeckeoffe. The aromatic intensity harmonises perfectly with Asian cuisine – particularly Thai curries, Vietnamese summer rolls or Chinese dishes with ginger and coriander. Also an excellent choice with Moroccan tagines or Indian dishes with moderate spice.