Gewürztraminer Roche Calcaire 2018
Trade Tools
France / Vins D'Alsace
This wine only represents a very small batch originating from a small vineyard located on the village of Gueberschwihr, very close to the Grand Cru Goldert. (Before, it used to blend with the youngest vines from the Hengst, now pulled out). With a similar east facing gentle slope and later ripening climate, this wine is often harvested late. The slightly richer soil made of deep marl and clay deposits often produces a spicy elegant type of Gewurztraminer in the medium sweet range. The grapes were very healthy in 2016 as it wasn’t a vintage for botrytis. However, the natural richness of the Gewurztraminer explains the presence of residual sweetness.
Harvest Note
The weather patterns were unusual yet resulted in a fine high-quality crop in most locations. The winter was extremely cold, and total rainfall for January through July was more than twice the normal amount. This replenished the soil moisture while the vines growth cycle was largely undisturbed. The summer months brought more stable, warm and dry conditions. Harvest proceeded over a two-month period, which allowed a precise approach to each terroir.
Tasting Note
This is a rich wine (Indice 4) yet with great finess and energy due to the limestone subsoils. Aromas include rose petal, lychee fruit, leather and a touch of smoke and damp earth.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 100% Gewürztraminer
APPELLATION: Vin d'Alsace
PH: 3.59
ACIDITY: 2.82
ABV: 13%
AGING: In neutral wood cask
MALOLACTIC FERMENTATION: Yes
Unique Selling Points
- Roche Calcaire contrasts gewurztraminer exuberance with limestone finesse
- The Roche Calcaire assumes slightly different accents depending upon the vine type
- This is a wine which is generous when young but will age easily for 10 years
- Roche wines provide an entry to the more precise Grand Crus and single vineyard wines
Good wine is made by people who actually do everything they say they are doing.
Olivier Humbrecht MW, Winemaker
About the Grape
Gewürztraminer
Gewürztraminer has unmistakably heady intensity of fragrance, with pungent aromas of litchis, tropical fruits and rose petals. Its flavors are ample, fruity and spicy rather than complex.
