ABOUT: Alsace is a grand region of glorious wine and the only French wine region that prints the grape variety right there on the label. We love the region for it’s transparency and the wines are so good that it’s a pretty easy affair. Marcel Deiss is a leading biodynamic practitioner in the region making a variety of wines and styles from a myriad of vineyards. He’s best known for his incredible Grand Cru field blends but he also makes varietal wines from those very Grand Cru vineyards, probably a greater benefit to us than him. This Muscat is from the best sections of Bergheim (Altenberg and Pflanzer) where soils are comprised of clay, limestone and fossils. Whole cluster pressing, indigenous yeasts and 12 months ageing on lees is all these beautiful grapes needs to make a great Muscat. TASTE: Made from a blend of Ottonel Muscat, White Alsatian Muscat, and Pink Alsatian Muscat this wine is dry with aromas and flavors of honeydew, pineapple, candied lemon peel, orange juice, honey, jasmine and hops. The acidity is crisp and bright and keep the fruit and flower flavors pulsing through the long finish. The higher level of acidity will also keep this wine developing positively for several more years. Muscat from Alsace is a bit of a curiosity, usually not making many top 10 lists, but we’re charmed by its deceptive dryness and delicious, focused fruit flavors. PAIR: Cheddar and chive mashed potatoes, apple cornbread stuffing, roasted garlic refried beans, sopes with smoked pinto beans, and spring vegetable gnocchi.
