2023 Bott Frères, Edelzwicker Vin d'Alsace

Bott Frères is located in the village of Ribeauvillé, in the heart of Alsace. Since 1835, some of the oldest wine know-how has been transmitted from generation to generation; father to son. The Bott family does not manufacture wine, it cultivates it. On the estate's vineyards, seven varieties are grown and produced in a wide array of soils and the subsequent wines made in a range of styles. The grape harvest is undertaken manually and the output is monitored in order to produce high quality wines. Ageing takes place in century old oak casks. The results are some of the most food friendly and distinctive wines from Alsace. Since 2019, the estate has been in transition to organic certification.

The tradition of Edelzwicker in Alsace goes back to 1644, when the noble grapes of the region were blended together to make a wine (Edel means noble, Zwicker means blend). Today, Edelzwicker can be made from any of the approved Alsace varietals in whichever percentage the producer sees fit, and vintage is not required. A traditional field blend of 45% Sylvaner, 45% Pinot Blanc and 10% Gewürztraminer, the Bott Frères Edelzwicker pours a pale gold into the glass with lemon highlights. The nose is a vibrant concoction of heady floral notes, white stone fruits alongside citrus zest, fresh garden herbs and subtle spice. The palate has a delicate texture with lovely concentration of fruit and mineral flavors that flow into an energizing finish.