Gewürztraminer Furstentum Grand Cru 2023

A medium-sweet white wine from Alsace that doesn't flaunt its residual sugar but weaves it in: rose blossom and lychee set the direction, while a bitter note of grapefruit peel pulls it back. The 13.5% vol. alcohol carries the wine's fullness without ever making it heavy.

Furstentum is one of six Grand Cru sites farmed by Maurice and Jacky Barthelmé from Wettolsheim. Their 25 hectares are scattered across nearly a hundred parcels, each with its own character. In Furstentum, Gewürztraminer grows on limestone; the two brothers-in-law have spent decades observing which variety belongs where. On the steepest slopes, horses replace tractors, keeping the soil uncompacted and allowing roots to dig deeper.

Pure Gewürztraminer, hand-harvested and selected. The domaine has farmed biodynamically since 1997: Jacky oversees the vineyards, Maurice the cellar, both sharing the same philosophy — force nothing, observe, respond. The wine's medium-sweet residual sugar comes from ripe grapes, not a recipe.

Full-bodied and supple, with mango, passion fruit and a touch of honey, alongside ginger and spice notes. The acidity stays lively, keeping the long, spicy finish in motion.

Classically with Munster or Époisses cheese, whose intensity the wine absorbs with ease. With Asian cuisine it pairs well with Vietnamese spring rolls, Thai curry and Peking duck; for something heartier, try pork fillet with apple wedges, duck breast with orange sauce or foie gras.

In 2012, Maurice and Jacky Barthelmé were named Winemakers of the Year. Today, Antoine, their son, also works at the estate.