Alsatian Pinot
by Chris Santini
Chilled crémant for breakfast? It’s a tradition in Alsatian hotels. Gargantuan portions of comfort food? Tradition, too, at the local winstub. That holiday, end-of-year festive vibe, seamlessly spread out over all 365 days? That, too, on every street. What’s not to love about Alsace? Not to mention the Pinots!
2021 Pinot
France | Alsace
An Eau d’Alsace of sorts, this blend of Pinots Blanc and Gris conjures up much of the essence of the region with its joyous holiday spice and round, rose-petal texture. It is a joy to drink on its own, to soak in the region, and even to get a touch of holiday cheer six months out.
2018 Pinot Blanc Vieilles Vignes “Trois Châteaux”
France | Alsace
The older estates in Alsace who have been going about winemaking over several centuries have the luxury of holding onto wines and releasing them only when they are ready to rock. This six-year-old bottle, the current release, shows exactly why they do that, with its complex, mature aromas and creamy finish perfectly spot-on. A comfort wine for your favorite comfort food.
2019 Pinot Gris Réserve
France | Alsace
One smell and a sip and you know you’ve got a master at work here. A sign of Boxler’s genius is the way he weaves in hints of sweet aromas, akin to the faint scents of sweetness you perceive walking into a bakery, intertwined in layers of licorice, apricot, and mint. Just enough of everything leaves you craving more.