Professional Review by Stephen Tanzer; Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, Nov/Dec 03 Rated: 86 ($17) Rose petal and cinnamon on the nose. Ripe, intense and fairly full for this bottling, with notes of spices, flowers and fruit. Not particularly complex but nicely aromatic. This would be perfect alongside fusion cuisine

Gewurztraminer 1998, Alsace The unmistakable floral aroma and distinctive, zesty spice taste of a non-sweet Gewurztraminer as only the Alsatians can deliver. This wine invites the consumer to visit more of the crisp, clean wines of Alsace. A large wine glass of fresh berries marinated in this wine presents an elegant treat on a warm summer day. $15.50

Gewurztraminer Réserve 1990

Gewurztraminer Cuvée Des Seigneurs De Ribeaupierre 1998, Grand Cru Osterberg in Ribeauvillé- Lieu-dit Muehlforst in Hunawihr, southern exposures, ranging from 250 to 350 meters above seal level. The soil here is argilo - calcaire, clay and limestone, Keuper. The average age of these densely planted vines is more than 30 year old. The grapes were picked as late as possible in order to achieve maximum ripeness, which in turn, gives optimum depth of flavor and complexity

#Gewurztraminer Seigneurs De Ribeaupierre Gewurztraminer 1994, $105.00

Gewurztraminer Cuvée des Seigneurs de Ribeaupierre 1990($34.99). Very strong lychee, roasted apple, and mixed nut aromas (this was an excellent year), a wine with great depth yet tingly acidity. Some earthy notes turn into a persistent yet highly unexpected Muenster flavor that lingers on and on in the nearly endless finish. Oily, rich, coats the mouth and stays there. Only to be served with the strongest of cheeses, this fantastic wine has another 20 years ahead of it. Thor Iverson

#Gewurztraminer Cuvée des Seigneurs de Ribeaupierre 1985 ($35.99). A rich medium gold with some fading at the edges. One of the most enticing noses I've ever experienced in a white wine: dried apricot, bread crust, lemon peel, sand, walnut shell, honey, and with some air even smoked meats. The wine doesn't quite live up to its smelly potential; though the nutmeg, flowers, lychee, olive oil, citrus, and oily pear flavors are deliciously delivered by a sharply acidic structure, the wine is starting to climb back down its peak of maturity. The finish is tingly citrus and maple, lingering like the last bite of a sundae on a hot summer day. This should be consumed soon for the most enjoyment, though it will certainly hold on for many years to come. Thor Iverson

Gewurztraminer Sélection de Grains Nobles 1989

Gewurztraminer Sélection de Grains Nobles Hors Choix 1989

Gewurztraminer Vendanges Tardives 1997 - Vendanges Tardives are not produced every year, but only in great vintages like 1983-1989-1990-1994-1996 and now 1997, when towards the end of the harvest one can see that the grapes have gained some extra sweetness. In 1997, the grapes were extremely ripe due to small quantity and over-ripening (passerillage) which means that all of the water in the berries was evaporated by wind and sun, producing a great concentration of natural sugar and acidity. The potential alcohol at harvest was over 16.5%; the law requires 14.3% potential alcohol in order to declare a wine Vendanges Tardives and 16.4% for Selections de Grains Nobles, so in fact, this wine is of SGN quality. Grapes were sourced from the Grand Cru vineyard Osterberg in Ribeauville and from very old vines in Hunawihr on lieu dit Muelforst. Jean and Pierre Trimbach personally supervised the selection. Yields were a mere 1.8 tons per acre. 

      Winemaker's Notes: This wine can be compared to the brilliant 1990 or the legendary 1971, which is still drinking extremely well today. This is a perfect wine to enjoy as an aperitif or as a companion to smoked fish. It is excellent with spicy Chinese-style dishes, patés, terrines, and strong cheese such as Roquefort, blue cheeses and of course the famous Alsace Münster. TECHNICAL DATA: Alcohol: 13.3%, Residual Sugar:

Gewurztraminer Vendange Tardive 1990