Marcel Deiss: Alsace, France

Mambourg

Mambourg, Alsace Grand Cru

Overlooking Sigolsheim, the Mambourg hillside is the first vineyard to be harvested every year by Jean-Michel Deiss. Its reputation dates from the Middle Ages, when it belonged to monasteries and feudal lords. Its lime-magnesium soil enjoys maximum sunlight and lies on Tertiary limestone and marl conglomerates that cover the hills. The particular geology gives Mambourg its very rare feature, namely a tannic power that is always present and a suave roundness of shape. The lower vineyard, companion planted at the rate of 12,700 vine stocks/hectare with all Pinots (Pinot Gris, Pinot Beurot and Pinot Noir), gives a tiny yield of 15 to 20 hectoliters/hectare. The wine is always perfectly dry, and is sometimes exaggeratedly powerful and extremely complex. (Pinot family: Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Beurot)

2003 Vintage Reviews:
“Bright pale color. Smoke, honey and a waxy nuance on the nose, with little primary fruit showing. Then spicy in the mouth, with suggestions of butter and toffee, but incredibly closed in on itself today. Seems a bit evolved in the style of this hot year and yet this has terrific acidity and a light touch.” 90(+?) Stephen Tanzer, Nov/Dec 2006

2002 Vintage Reviews:
“Reserved aromas of banana cream, apricot, yellow flowers and bacon fat. Balanced, lush, ripe flavors of peach preserves, pineapple and tobacco show beautiful balance. Lingering, fruit strewn finish.” 93 Wine News, October/November 2006

“Fat and creamy, yet deftly balanced by a lively structure full of intense apricot, vanilla and spice flavors that resonate through the lingering butterscotch aftertaste.” 90 Wine Spectator, October 2005


2002:

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