Light purple in colour, slightly translucent and with a garnet red rim, the wine appears clear and bright in the glass.

The 2017 Clos de la Faille from Domaine Albert Mann makes a fragrant start. Florals from thyme blossom to lilac to corn poppy lead curving footsteps to red-fruited notes of fresh plum, cranberry and pomegranate. Sea buckthorn, ripe sharon fruit and rosemary honey provide yellow-fleshed comfort, while a subtly nutty and resinous scent of pine cones and truffles adds spice on a quiet sole.

Juicy and with earthy red fruitiness it comes along. This Alsatian Pinot Noir is velvety and steely at the same time. With perfectly balanced tannins, a vibrant acidity and tight structure, it has pressure on the palate, is aroma-intensive and expressive. And all this without having to be loud. The wood barrel use attributed to it is not noticeable, ergo just right! This gustatory tug-of-war is destined for longevity. Still hiding in the cellar. In three to four years it has found its center.