Pinot Gris Furstentum Grand Cru 2023

The Pinot Gris from the Furstentum is a dry white wine with fullness and a clear line. Ripe yellow pear and quince set the tone, followed by almond, a touch of honey and a hint of smoke. The texture is dense, yet not heavy.

The Furstentum is one of six Grand Cru vineyards cultivated by Maurice and Jacky Barthelmé from Wettolsheim. Here, the Pinot Gris grows on limestone, which gives the wine structure and length. In total it spans 25 hectares, divided into nearly a hundred parcels, each with its own character. Since 1997 the two brothers-in-law have worked biodynamically; on the steepest parcels, horses replace tractors so the soil isn't compacted and the roots can reach deeper.

Pinot Gris, also known as Grauburgunder. Which grape variety suits which parcel is something the Barthelmés learned through decades of observation, not by formula. Maurice is responsible for the cellar, Jacky for the vineyards; son Antoine now works alongside them. The ageing remains understated, the wine is dry, at 13.5% vol.

Powerful and structured, with juicy fruit, fine spice and an acidity that keeps the fullness in shape. The finish is long and saline. With some air in the glass, the wine gains definition.

Pan-seared foie gras, mushroom ragout in cream sauce, light meats such as veal or poultry, paired with robust Munster or mature Comté.

Grand Cru vineyard Furstentum on limestone, biodynamic farming since 1997, "Winemaker of the Year" in 2012.