Laurent Barth 2008 Marckrain Gewurztraminer
Gewurztraminer is one of the four "noble grape varieties" along with Riesling, Muscat and Pinot Gris permitted in Alsace Grand Crus. Its wines are usually higher in alcohol than Riesling and when made from botrytized grapes can easily exceed the 16% alcohol mark. Sometimes I find Gewurztraminer heavy and at worst, when the acidity levels in the grapes were low, unappetizingly flabby. But luckily, Laurent Barth's 2008 Gewurztraminer from the Grand Cru site of Marckrain, which consists of marl and limestone, combines all of the good aspects of this grape variety.
It is deeply golden in color with light pinkish hue. The aroma has a medium(+) intensity of lychee and honey. Their lushness is elegantly balanced by a touch of mineral austerity.
Despite the alcohol level of 13.5% this Gewurztraminer is sweet, but the alcohol is very well integrated by a medium(+) acidity. Pronounced intensity of pear, lychee, quince—quite concentrated—with a slightly bitter overtone. All of this is in perfect harmony and the medium(+) length ends with a nice mineral finish, which adds a freshness to this wine that is not often found in a Gewurztraminer. It is a pleasure to drink now, but considering the complexity and acidity this Gewurztraminer should evolve nicely over the next 5-10 years.
In short:
Very good - Excellent
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