Cave Vinicole à Hunawihr’s Gewurztraminer Réserve 2020 review and tasting notes
Before diving into the deep end of the wine glass, let’s cover some essential points about what makes Cave Vinicole à Hunawihr’s Gewurztraminer Réserve 2020 so special. We are talking about a French white wine that comes from the Alsace region, specifically from the historical winery of Cave Vinicole à Hunawihr. The wine is a monovarietal, meaning it’s made from 100% Gewurztraminer grapes, and the 2020 vintage we’re exploring today is one that wine connoisseurs have been particularly excited about.
The Basics
- Origin: Alsace, France
- Vintage: 2020
- Grape Varietals: 100% Gewurztraminer
- Alcohol Content: 13.5%
- Price Point: Around $25
- Availability: Relatively good but subject to availability
History of the Cave Vinicole à Hunawihr Winery
Nestled in the wine-soaked regions of Alsace, the Cave Vinicole à Hunawihr Winery has been a stalwart in French viticulture. Established in 1954, this cooperative has honed its craft over decades, emphasizing honest quality and authenticity in every bottle they produce. You won’t find very profound wines or masterpieces, but the wines are decisive and sincere, with an excellent average quality.
The Making of Gewurztraminer Réserve 2020
What sets the 2020 Réserve apart? A temperate year with well-timed rainfall allowed for a fruitful harvest. The grapes are hand-picked and subjected to slow, controlled fermentation in stainless steel vats to retain the varietal’s aromatic richness.
Tasting Notes
Unveiling this wine is akin to peeling an aromatic onion—but way more pleasant. With every sniff and sip, you unearth another layer. On the nose, it presents an exquisite blend of lychee, rose petals, and a hint of ginger. The palate sings a different tune—think ripe peaches sprinkled with exotic spices. A veil of acidity ensures the wine remains balanced, while its complexity ensures that every sip is a voyage of discovery. Tense, pleased mouth, syrupy in its performance, but clean, linear and dynamic. Easy to drink, nutmeg and verbena finish.
Price and Availability
This exotic journey comes at a price point of approximately $25 per bottle, offering significant value for the quality presented. Availability is generally good, although it’s worth nabbing a bottle whenever you find one.
Food Pairings
Rich and layered, this wine asks for equally compelling food partners. Think Asian fusion dishes, pad thai, carbonara or even a classic Alsatian choucroute garnie, where its spiciness can complement the robust flavors of the dish.
Technical Information
- Aging Process: Aged for 1 year in stainless steel tanks
- Soil Type: Mixture of limestone and marl
- Harvest Method: Handpicked
- Average Vine Age: 20 years
