2003 Riesling Grand Cru Pfersigberg, Bruno Sorg

Bruno Sorg introduced me to the notion of terroir in 2003, an episode that fueled my interest for Alsace. Over the years, I have shared more bottles with this wonderful, friendly and utterly skilled man than with any other vigneron in Alsace. But in mid-October 2013 Bruno Sorg left this world. He will be missed by many that have returned to his courtyard in Eguisheim for the wines that he, and since several years his son François, has offered lovers of Alsace wines.

2003 Riesling Grand Cru Pfersigberg from Bruno Sorg in Eguisheim is medium golden yellow with a green tint. The aroma is expressive, pure and sweet with wild flowers, peach, honey dew, pineapple, coffee beans and a whiff of petrol. The taste is fresh, vital and quite dry with a sense of chalky minerality in the perfectly balanced finish. A serious and charming wine from a very difficult vintage. Price (current vintage): €13.50.

2012 Riesling Vielles Vignes, Frédéric Engel

Vintage 2012 gave many good wines. The wines are not as powerful as in 2009 and 2011, not as tart as in 2010. Instead, it's a classic vintage, without too much alcohol and with good balance. "Gastronomic Wines" is a good label, to the extent you need any. But the vintage is a bit uneven, and you should be especially careful when choosing your Gewurztraminer. Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir are consistently successful and 2012 Riesling from the best vineyards can be trusted.

2012 Riesling Vielles Vignes from Frédéric Engel in Riquewihr has a beautiful straw yellow color. The scent is very fresh with classic tones of yellow apples, honey and grapefruit. The palate is medium-bodied and dry, with a nice balance between the youthful fruit and clean acidity. The aftertaste has a typical and marked note of grapefruit peel. A reprsentative, well-made an cheap wine. Price € 6.90.