2012MannGewurz2012 Domaine Albert Mann, Gewurztraminer, Grand Cru Steingrubler, Alsace, France.
This glorious example of Gewürztraminer is a highlight in the impressive set of new releases from Domaine Albert Mann, having tasted a set of eight or so wines from this claimed producer from Alsace, all of which left me highly impressed, especially the Cru offerings. These artisan and hand crafted bottlings showcase a talent in the cellar and the absolutely remarkable terroirs of the region, there is depth of styles and varietal expression that really captures the soul of Alsace, and I adored the Schlossberg Riesling, V.T. Gewürztraminer and this beautifully detailed and richly textured Steingrubler Gewürztraminer 2012. This is a wine that reminds you that Gewurz is a serious and sensual grape, it shows juicy layers, exotic flavors and is full of perfume, spice and delicate sweetness with intense rose oil, crystalized ginger, white pepper, lychee and yellow peach leading the way along with river stones, mixed citrus, tropical essences and verbena. There is a light honey and off dry feel, but this is a balanced and vibrant wine that is very flexible, it can be enjoyed with a huge range of cuisine and or just sipped in the sun, it goes great with ham or roast bird, it goes exceptionally well with medium spicy Asian fare and can be joyous with fruit and cheese. This is a stunner, and has rekindled my love of Gewürztraminer, this along with Domaine Weinbach, are special versions and they are not only perfect Thanksgiving wines or for holiday dinners, they deserve more attention and use than that, drink this beauty over the next 3 to 5 years, best from 2015 to 2018.
($38 Est.) 93+ Points, grapelive

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