Albatross is thrilled to bring you two exceptional selections from Rolly Gassmann in Alsace, the Pinot Gris Brandhurst de Bergheim 2016 and the Riesling 2021, and I am delighted to be writing about this wonderful viticultural area.
Why Alsace Is Such a Special Wine Region
Alsace is a very special region. Its northerly location provides plentiful sunlight hours and a long growing season, but the climate is unusually warm for its latitude thanks to the protection of the Vosges mountains. This growing environment is the perfect cradle for gorgeous, single-varietal wines that show off their unique aroma characteristics.
Rolly Gassmann: A Winegrowing Family Since 1611
Rolly Gassmann is a winegrowing family in this region dating back to 1611. They’re deeply in touch with the land, conducting extensive soil research and exercising biodynamic practices to usher in the best possible grapes. The family is very picky about who distributes their wines; 80% is sold in France, and it’s much easier to find these wines at a Michelin-starred restaurant than a wine shop - Albatross is honored to be a selected purveyor.
Tasting Notes: The Two Selections
The Pinot Gris accumulates high sugar levels on the vine, resulting in a fuller bodied, richly textured wine with notes of pear, apricot, and yellow apple, and with bottle age can develop a honeyed note, which is already emerging in the 2016 bottling.
Riesling 2021
The Riesling is the flagship varietal, and this bottling features pronounced aromas of honeysuckle, blossom, lemon, and peach, and characteristic steely minerality. This wine would pair excellently with spicier food, such as any Thai dishes featuring ginger, or spicy chili garlic noodles.
Rediscovering White Wines This Spring
As the weather warms, I know I’m emerging from my red-wine-only hibernation, and looking to rediscover some white wines. If you’re in the same boat, I’d encourage you to try one of these spectacular Alsace selections!
