Cave de Turckheim Grand Cru Brand Riesling 2018  £21.90

Cave De Turckheim Grand Cru Brand Riesling

Grapes are sourced from especially delineated Grands Crus - areas of exceptional soils where only Riesling, Muscat d'Alsace, Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer can be planted. The soil is constituted of dry granite, which imparts unique characters and style to the wine and helps to keep yields low. The Grand Cru of Brand takes its name from the German word for ‘fire’. Due to its southerly aspect, this vineyard benefits from remarkably high levels of sunshine which in turn results in grapes with high levels of ripeness and richness. Produced traditionally by winemaker Jean Michel Lihrmann - pneumatic pressing, temperature controlled fermentation, no finings and light filtration before bottling - all to preserve fruit and aromatic qualities and elegance. His philosophy is to make wines with good acidity and fruit balance.

A classic Alsace Riesling; fine and dry with elegant pear, floral and citrus fruit on the nose underpinned by toasty aromas and a wet-gravel minerality. The palate is broader with rich fruits, a beautiful play of dry and sweet, with a smoky element and underpinned with luscious acidity.

Classically paired with seafood or, in the true spirit of Alsace, with rich pork and cheese dishes such as Choucroute or Tarte Flambée, otherwise known as Flammküche.