2020 Schoffit Gewurztraminer Rangen, Alsace

The nose offers flint and smoke, with the terroir dominating the grape variety. The palate is energetic and vibrant, with a lingering, sun-drenched finish: it boasts a formidable personality.

95 points, La Revue du Vin de France, Guide Vert 2023.

The Grand Cru Rangen vineyard in Thann represents one of Alsace's most extraordinary and challenging terroirs, where steep volcanic slopes demand exceptional viticultural expertise and reward dedicated growers with wines of remarkable intensity and complexity. Domaine Schoffit has mastered this formidable site, working with some of the region's oldest vines planted on pure volcanic soil that creates a unique microclimate. The Rangen's dark volcanic rock absorbs heat during the day and radiates it back to the vines at night, extending the growing season and allowing Gewürztraminer grapes to achieve perfect phenolic ripeness while maintaining the acidity that gives this wine its legendary aging potential and distinctive character.

This exceptional Gewürztraminer displays a deep golden color with amber highlights that hint at its concentration and maturity. The aromatic profile is immediately captivating and intensely perfumed, offering an exotic bouquet of lychee, rose petals, and Turkish delight, layered with notes of ginger, white pepper, and smoky volcanic minerality. On the palate, the wine reveals remarkable depth and complexity, with flavors of candied citrus peel, passion fruit, and honeyed stone fruits balanced by a distinctive mineral backbone that only volcanic terroir can provide. The texture is rich yet elegant, with a long, spicy finish that showcases the unique terroir expression of this legendary vineyard site.

This powerful Gewürztraminer pairs magnificently with spiced Asian cuisine, particularly Thai curry, Szechuan dishes, or aromatic Indian preparations where its intensity can match bold flavors. The wine's natural richness makes it an excellent companion to foie gras, aged Munster cheese, or duck confit, while its exotic character complements Moroccan tagines or Middle Eastern dishes with warming spices. For dessert pairings, consider tarte tatin, spiced pear desserts, or rich chocolate preparations that echo the wine's complex aromatic profile.