Hugel Sélection de Grains Nobles Gewürztraminer 1998

Hugel means "hill" in the Alsacian language, which explains the three hills on the family crest. The Hugels boast a documented tradition which dates back to 1639 and are considered the pioneers of Alscace wine growing. They have worked admirably long and hard at promoting their wines and gaining worldwide distribution.  The green Hugel bottle with a yellow label is recognised around the world and contains the promise that the wine within will be pure and well made.

Today the winery is owned by the thirteenth generation of the family.  Located exclusively in the village of Riquewihr, the vineyards cover a total of 25 hectares, of which about half are classified 'Grand Cru'. They enjoy a prime location with a climate which enables the grapes to ripen slowy, endowing the wine with aromas of unmatched finesse and intensity.

The Hugel family has been selected to be one of the twelve family wine companies from the great wine regions of the world which make up the PRIMUM FAMILIAE VINI association.

Appearance

Golden yellow with old gold highlights.

Nose

Masses of botrytised grapes burst through on the nose, as well as an abundance of apricot jam, candied fruit and wilted flower aromas, against a smoky backdrop.

Palate

Rich and intense.  Brillant concentration and flavours of caramelized peaches, spices and raspberries show through in the wine’s deep character and seemingly endless finish.

Comment

These exceptional wines, from a very small production and from selected overripe and shriveled grape berries (“grains nobles”), are only available in the best years. They are unique, magical wines which have been subjected to the most stringent legislation in France since 1983.  When you talk about the selection of "grains nobles" you are also evoking the luxury of the Alsace terroir .

The Gewurztraminer Selection de Grains Nobles comes from the Hugel family property's old vineyard parcels, located in the heart of the Sporen Grand Cru. This vineyard sits on a gentle slope with a south-east exposure, at 275 metres altitude, on Lias clay-marl, pebbly soils.

With its heady perfume and exceptional length that goes on expanding beyond the palate, this wine is a sheer delight for anyone.

Recommended with a pear and chocolate tarte tatin.