Rolly Gassmann Haguenau de Bergheim Sélection de Grains Nobles Gewurztraminer: A Masterpiece in a Bottle

Heritage of Excellence

Rolly Gassmann is not an ordinary winery. With roots stretching back to 1611, the Gassmann legacy combines with the Rolly family, established in 1676, to form a pillar of Alsace winemaking. Situated in the scenic village of Rorschwihr, the estate harnesses generations of expertise to craft wines that are both timeless and ahead of their time. Since 1967, the harmonious marriage of tradition and innovation has been led by Pierre Gassmann, ensuring each bottle mirrors the heritage from which it springs.

The Vineyard – Haguenau de Bergheim

Located in the idyllic heart of Alsace, Haguenau de Bergheim represents a tapestry of terroirs. As one of several renowned lieux-dits around Bergheim, this vineyard is distinguished by its unique limestone-rich soils, punctuated by clay-marl and sandstones, creating the perfect backdrop for Gewurztraminer grapes to flourish. These soils contribute significantly to the wine’s finesse and complexity, allowing the essence of the terroir to shine brightly.

The Unrivaled Gewurztraminer

Gewurztraminer is celebrated for its aromatic opulence, a hallmark of Alsatian viticulture. Rolly Gassmann’s selection showcases this variety’s potential to achieve remarkable depth and aromatic intensity, with notes of lychee, rose petals, and exotic spices. When accompanied by the effects of Botrytis cinerea, the grapes transform, achieving extraordinary sweetness balanced by refreshing acidity.

An Ode to Sélection de Grains Nobles

The term Sélection de Grains Nobles (SGN) represents an elite echelon of wine production where each grape is hand-selected, ensuring only the finest botrytized berries make the cut. This meticulous process results in a wine that embodies luxurious richness and nuanced complexity—a true testament to the winemaker’s art.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Expect a mesmerizing deep golden hue, hinting at the wine’s layered, sumptuous character.
• Nose: Opens with intense fragrances of rose, lychee, and Turkish delight. The influence of noble rot adds deeper, honeyed notes of apricot, ginger, and a touch of exotic tea.
• Palate: A symphony of sweetness and acidity unfolds on the palate, with flavors that echo the bouquet, offering delightful surprises of marmalade and candied fruits.
• Finish: The finish is as lingering as it is refreshing, a testament to the structured balance achieved through careful viticulture.

Perfect Pairings

This wine is not just a drink; it is an experience best complemented by culinary delights. Pair with foie gras or blue cheeses to elevate your tasting to new heights. Alternatively, enjoy it with Asian dishes to balance spice or indulge in fruit-based desserts that highlight the wine’s tropical notes.

A Rare Gem

Crafted only in exceptional years, this SGN is a rarity, with volumes reflecting the unique climatic conditions that permit noble rot’s development. These wines, lauded by the likes of Jancis Robinson MW, are a benchmark in white wines, offering collectors a bottle that promises longevity and evolving complexity.

Long Aging Potential

Thanks to its composition and craftsmanship, each Rolly Gassmann Sélection de Grains Nobles Gewurztraminer will mature beautifully over decades, developing layers of complexity while maintaining its vibrant spirit. It is truly a treasure for those who appreciate the art of winemaking at its finest.