Wines of Alsace - Addendum

Weeks after my class on the Wines of Alsace, I cracked open (twist off, no cork!) an Alsatian blend I'd bought previously as a possible selection for the class.  As it turned out, this 2014 Bott-Geyl Points Cardinaux Métiss, a blend of Pinot Blanc, Pinot Auxerre, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir, really tantalized my palate such that I had to share the news with my students and blog readers.  As I noted in my class, most Alsatian wines are single varietals which are displayed prominently on the label -Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, etc.  However, there are occasional blends, and this one in particular was a revelation.  Combining several of the most common varietals of the Alsace, it delighted the senses with a pleasant fresh citrusy aroma and nuances of toast; on the palate it dazzled with tartness and underlying minerality; light to medium-bodied, it filled the mouth with a sparkling-type pizzazz, whetting the appetite for fresh grilled fish or seafood.  (It would also go well with any of the traditional Alsatian choucroute dishes.) The finish is sustained while subtly diminishing in anticipation of further sipping.  It retails for $16.99 in PA Wine Stores. Grab a bottle while you can!

91 (well-deserved) points, Wine Enthusiast, August 2016.