The Alsace Gewurztraminer Réserve from Domaine Meyer-Fonné can be considered an icon of Alsace. We are, of course, in Alsace, a land of vineyards stretching between the Vosges mountains and the Rhine plain. The vineyards of Domaine Meyer-Fonné grow in the heart of this territory, in the small commune of Katzenthal, where the soil is a mix of marl, limestone and granite. This geological mosaic gives the wine a complexity and minerality that make all the difference. The climate is semi-continental, with hot summers and cold winters, helping the grapes to ripen slowly, allowing them to develop their aromas and sugars to the fullest without losing their freshness. The distinctive feature of Félix Meyer, the winemaker who runs the estate, is precisely this: knowing how to balance aromatic richness with the right acidity, for a sip that never tires. The grapes are harvested by hand. Once in the cellar, they are slowly pressed and the must ferments for several weeks. The wine then matures for months on its fine lees in steel tanks. This ageing process gives the wine a creamy texture and an extra touch of complexity, keeping it vibrant and fragrant. Golden yellow in colour with bright reflections, the nose is overwhelmed by an explosion of aromas. Notes of rose and lychee, typical of the grape variety, but also sensations of ripe exotic fruit such as mango and passion fruit, with a touch of ginger and sweet spices. On the palate, it is round and enveloping, with a texture that seems almost honeyed but is balanced by a surprising freshness. The finish is long and persistent, leaving a pleasant aromatic memory that invites another sip. Pairings? Gewurztraminer is an ideal companion for Asian and spicy cuisine, as its softness perfectly balances the spiciness of dishes such as curry. It is also perfect with blue or mature cheeses, with which it creates an explosive but harmonious contrast.