The Pinot Gris "Granit de la Vallée" 2023 from Cave de Turckheim is an extraordinary expression of how soil can shape the character of a grape variety. While Pinot Grigio is often associated with softness and roundness, this selection comes from the steep granite slopes of the Turckheim valley, which infuse the wine with a rare verticality, purity, and mineral tension, elevating it to a level of absolute elegance.
Cave de Turckheim - Alsace Pinot Gris AOC "Granit de la Vallée" 2023
The Pinot Gris "Granit de la Vallée" is a tribute to the unique geology of the Vosges. Granite is a poor soil that forces vine roots to penetrate deep, producing small, concentrated berries. The result is a wine that departs from the more opulent standards of Alsatian Pinot Grigio to embrace a leaner, more vibrant style. The 2023 vintage enhances this characteristic, offering a perfect balance between the typical volume of the grape variety and a sharp saline streak. It is a white wine of great personality, capable of combining the aromatic richness of yellow fruit with the austere finesse of rock.
Sensory Profile Visually, it shines with a clear golden yellow with crystalline reflections. On the nose, the intensity is refined and complex: it opens with notes of ripe apricot, Kaiser pear, and dried flowers, enriched by a smoky touch and a minerality reminiscent of wet stone. On the palate, it is surprising: the entry is broad and velvety, almost buttery, but it is immediately cut through by a decisive acidic backbone and a granitic minerality that gives length and verticality. The finish is dry, persistent, with a pleasant return of dried fruit and a hint of sweet spices.
Winemaking and Aging The grapes are meticulously selected from parcels with the best granite exposure. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures to preserve the integrity of the fruit. This is followed by several months of aging on fine lees, which allows the wine to acquire the complexity and palate volume necessary to balance the significant mineral load of the granite.
Food Pairings Thanks to its structure and distinct savoriness, it is an extremely gastronomic wine. It pairs perfectly with flavorful white meats (veal or poultry with mushroom sauces), quiches with aged cheeses, and truffle-based dishes. Also excellent with fatty freshwater fish, such as arctic char or trout, and with lightly spiced oriental cuisine that requires body and a clean finish.
Technical Data
Producer: Cave de Turckheim
Wine: Alsace Pinot Gris AOC
Selection: Granit de la Vallée
Vintage: 2023
Grape Variety: 100% Pinot Gris
Region: France (Alsace)
Soil: Granitic
Alcohol Content: 13.5% Vol.
Format: 75 cl
