Pinot Gris Altenbourg, Le Tri, Sélection de Grains Nobles 2001 375ml

Tasting Notes for Pinot Gris Altenbourg Le Tri Sélection de Grains Nobles 2001 375ml by Domaine Albert Mann

Colour & Appearance

Sparkling, intensely luminous golden yellow.

Nose

An olfactory concentrate of monumental proportions: the glass displays luscious notes of liquid honey, candied quince and caramelised pears, underlined by dried apple slices, white nougat and fine vanilla pod.

Palate

On the palate, it reveals an opulent, multi-layered sweetness that is immediately balanced by a surprisingly fresh, fine acidity and a salty-seeming minerality. The rich fruit structure feels extremely dense without being heavy.

Finish

The finish seems practically endless, leaving a lasting impression of noble fruit, delicate spice and a salty richness.

Terroir & Origin

The gently sloping Altenbourg vineyard near Kientzheim lies at an altitude of 225 to 250 metres, directly below the Grand Cru site Furstentum. The limestone- and sediment-rich, highly sandy soils allow the grapes to ripen extremely slowly, providing perfect conditions for noble sweet Sélection de Grains Nobles. The estate works with the deepest respect for the soil – Demeter-certified and biodynamically farmed since 1997.

Grape Variety & Vinification

100% Pinot Gris. The additional designation “Le Tri” refers to a meticulous, hand-selection of individual botrytis-affected berries. The Barthelmé brothers force nothing here: such exceptional sweet wines are created only in vintages where nature bestows the perfect conditions.

Food Pairing

A majestic soloist that stands brilliantly on its own (“drink on its own”). Also excellent alongside unfattened goose liver, piquant blue cheese, quince sorbet or fruit-driven chocolate desserts.

Key Characteristics

A Demeter-certified elixir of a sweet wine from the dream vintage of 2001. The rare “Le Tri” selection represents the absolute pinnacle of Alsatian noble sweet culture and possesses ageing potential for many decades.