A wine made from grapes grown on a "cru" is the result of a harmonious combination of several factors such as soil, climate and grape variety, supervised and exalted by man's expertise.
Nowhere is the notion of "crus" better illustrated than in Alsace thanks to the huge variety of soils in the region.
"Geologically speaking, the vineyard land of Alsace is a veritable mosaic reputed as being one of the most complex in France" (2). This is why there can be such a difference amongst wines made from the same grape variety and grown on the same stretch of land.
Add to this the varying climates, number of sunshine hours, and levels of precipitation and you will understand that there is not one type of riesling or gewurztraminer, but several.
Finally, consider the contribution made by man's expertise and you will understand that there are actually hundreds of different rieslings and gewurztraminers.
The fact that the soils are so different from one area to another explains why so many different grape varieties have been planted in Alsace over the ages.
This complexity is the reason why there is such a wealth of wines in Alsace and why getting to know them is such a pleasure.
Our chalky soils produce splendid wines that are rich, opulent and highly expressive, carrying a complex bouquet of delicately fruity (acacia) and mineral notes.
With age, the freshness of the Riesling or the Tokay-Pinot gris, will mellow into all the aromatic complexity that a Grand Cru is capable of possessing.
The type of soil also yields excellent Gewurztraminers, full of fruit and freshness.
The history of Alsace is marked by appellations and single varietals, but it has not always been that way.
Sylvaner
Traditionally grown in Alsace, it would seem that Sylvaner originally comes from Austria and is present throughout Central Europe. It is also found in Russia, Australia and California. Fresh and light, it boasts a slightly fruity and floral palate.
Pinot Blanc
Also called Klevner, this is the white from of Pinot Noir. Pinot Blanc and the Auxerrois grape variety are frequently associated under the same denomination. Fresh, discretely fruity, with peach, apple and slightly floral notes, this variety offers the perfect expression of primary aromas.
Riesling
This is the variety that is the most associated with the Rhineland area!! It comes without a doubt from the Rhine Valley. Dry, elegant and slightly fruity, it offers a bouquet, boasting great finesse with citrus nuances, but also floral or mineral notes.
Muscat
Two varieties of Muscat are grown in Alsace- The Muscat d'Alsace and the Muscat Ottonel grape variety. This is the best example of a wine, boasting primary aromas. The olfactory strengh recalls a grape berry. This fruity intensity is sometimes joined by subtle floral notes.
Pinot Gris
According to a famous legend, young grape vines were brought back from the town of Tokay (Hungary), by the Baron, Lazare de Schwendi. However, studies by several vine specialists, indicate that Pinot Gris is originally from Burgundy. Reputed for its qualities and its ability to produce very concentrated wines, it was later dubbed Grauer Tokayer. This highly noble wine, boasts heaps of charisma and admirable roundness. It somtimes expresses a slightly mellow opulence, always underscored by good freshness.
Gewurztraminer
Gewurztraminer produces exceptionally aromatic wines from an old variety that has always existed in Alsace - The pink Traminer. The historic meaning of Gewurztraminer is "spicy Traminer". It is a full bodied wine, with volume and plenty of fat. However its freshness is always less discrete, compared with other varieties from Alsace.
Pinot Noir
Originally from Burgundy, Pinot Noir, is the only red variety authorized in Alsace. Initially used to make light and fruity wines, Pinot Noir is increasingly transformed into red wine; thereby resuscitating, a kind of ancient tradition. It boasts red berry or slightly oaky aromas. When it is oak aged, it develops a more complex and more full-bodied structure.
Our obsession with perfection,
means that we keep only the best
Each year, we select parcels with vines, satisfying our requirements. We undertake green harvesting, thereby eliminating some of the grapes, in view of increasing the concentration of the remaining fruit. We postpone the date of the harvest, in order to obtain the best possible maturity. The fruit is picked by hand. The wine is made, according to traditional methods with the same desire for perfection.
ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY GROWING METHODS
Reasoned agriculture strives to reduce the use of plant protection products. The objective is that of using them in a rational way, through the choice of the best product, the right dosage and the most suitable manner of application.
Imported from North and South America, various vine diseases, (like mildew, odium and phylloxera) appeared throughout the whole of Europe at the end of the 19th century. This invasion led to the extensive us of plant protection products. These treatments were required to grow healthy vines and to produce grapes fully expressing their true potential. However, in view of achieving the best possible protection, they were systematically used on a regular basis. As a result, the predators of insects and other parasites were eliminated, and at the same time, the vineyards became progressively more and more fragile. In addition, these measures were harmful for the environment.
Over the past couple of years, Cave de Pfaffenheim has decided do use them in a conscientious way. Indeed, our growers monitor the evolution of vine diseases to determine whether or not to treat for problems. They also determine the right amount to use and the best application techniques. At the same time, protective measures equally include allowing grass to grow throughout the vineyard, avoiding indiscriminate trimming and topping, excluding the use of highly toxic products, and separating the bunches of fruit to avoid rot.
Our objective is that of bequeathing to our children a healthy planet!