Albert Boxler : Pinot Gris Grand cru "Brand" 2021

The richness and precision of a great white wine from Alsace by Albert Boxler

The estate

Although the family's winemaking history dates back to the fifteenth century, the Albert Boxler estate officially came into being in 1946, when the family decided to bottle and sell their own wines. Located in Niedermorschwihr, in the heart of Alsace, the estate is now run by his grandson, Jean Boxler. Since 1996, he has upheld a demanding family know-how. Renowned worldwide, the estate stands out for its precision viticulture, deep respect for terroir, and a philosophy of minimal intervention in the cellar.

The vineyard

This grand cru from Alsace comes from the exceptional Brand terroir, located in the commune of Turckheim. Facing due south, these steep slopes form a true sun trap. The vines, forty to fifty years old, thrive on a skeletal soil made up of sand, clay, and gravel, resting on a granite bedrock. The estate cultivates around 1.9 hectares here according to organic farming principles, with strictly controlled yields and exclusively hand-harvested grapes.

The vintage

2021 proved to be a particularly challenging year in terms of weather. The period from April to July was marked by heavy rainfall, leading to significant disease pressure on the vines and delaying the ripening cycle of the grapes.

Winemaking and aging

After gentle pressing, the musts of this 2021 Pinot Gris Grand Cru "Brand" undergo cold settling. Fermentation begins naturally thanks to indigenous yeasts within old oak foudres. The wine then benefits from a long aging period on fine lees throughout the winter, without any stirring (bâtonnage), in order to preserve its purity. Bottling takes place at the end of the following summer, without fining or filtration.

Grape variety

100% Pinot Gris

Characteristics and tasting notes for the 2021 Pinot Gris Grand Cru "Brand" Albert Boxler

Tasting notes

Color
The color reveals a lovely golden hue of medium intensity.

Nose
Precise and restrained, the nose expresses a striking minerality intertwined with stone fruit aromas, such as ripe pear and apricot, subtly enhanced by herbaceous touches.

Palate
Rich and succulent, the palate seduces with its power and structure. A vibrant acidity perfectly balances the concentration of fruity flavors, leading to a long, dry, and deeply mineral finish.

Food and wine pairing

This white wine pairs wonderfully with smoked meats, poultry with mild spices such as curry, or rich fish dishes in sauce. It also enhances foie gras and aged hard-rind cheeses.

Service and storage

To fully appreciate this 2021 Pinot Gris Grand Cru "Brand", it is recommended to open it about fifteen minutes before tasting and to serve it at a temperature of around 10°C. Ready to enjoy now, it can also be cellared until around 2036.

Other characteristics

This wine has a very slight residual sweetness that harmoniously balances its mineral backbone.