Grand Cru

Zotzenberg

Mittelbergheim

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      Mittelbergheim

    Resting on the south side of the Mittelbergheim hillside which reaches 320m, Zotzenberg sits in a basin.

    Facing east and south, it has privileged sunshine. Its terroir, over 36.45ha, is composed of Jurassic-period marl and limestone as well as Oligocene limestone and marl, formations which retain dampness and are resistant to drought.

    Formerly mostly known for its Sylvaner, this terroir allows Gewurztraminer, Riesling and Pinot Gris to express themselves in a most remarkable manner.

    Initially called Zoczenberg (1364), it has the rare privilege of having been marketed under its own name since the beginning of the 20th century.

    Zotzenberg Grand Crus, due to their marl-limestone origin, stand out by their great finesse and exceptional body. A wine which ages wonderfully.

    Citation

    This fine terroir is characterized by a spirit of freshness and deliciousness.

    The depth revealed by this Cru, blends distinct and extensive acidity to a light spirit procuring a refreshing sensation. The floral and peppery notes delicately intermingle with the noticeable structure of this Cru. The subtle length is marked by pleasant and noble bitter taste which reveal a salty and mentholated touch.

    This is the land of Sylvaner. Here, this grape variety manages to develop all its aromatic potential and reveals the finesse and saltiness of this terroir. A rare combination of noble vegetable aromas – bay leaves, verbena – explodes into a wonderfully delicious structure. 

    The other grape varieties maintain this sweet spirit, backing a light and delicious structure.

    Romain Ilitis
    Meilleur Sommelier de France 2012 & Meilleur Ouvrier de France 2015  

    Consommation

    It’s a Grand Cru which reveals it potential quickly, after about two years. It also ages admirably well, maintaining beautiful harmony, adding notes of hazelnuts or fresh almonds to its aromatic palette.

    During early vintage: a generous and structured weight on the palate provides a delightfully pleasurable sensation.   The bitter notes are associated with flavours of dried fruits in the length, which accentuate the sensation of roundness and enhance the minerality.

    During late vintage: the exuberance reveals a more delicate structure. The floral spirit is dominant and marks the light structural sensation. The salty finish is subtle.

    Accords

    It’s a Grand Cru which brilliantly pairs with refined regional, and also Nordic cuisine. The bitter touch, present in many regional dishes or cold meats, as well as in the smoked sea-based products and vegetables such as potatoes, allows for a combination and association of flavours between the dishes and the wine. The light sensation will make them more delicious, allowing the wine’s personality to be expressed with convincingly mutual consent.

    The Grands Crus of Alsace

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