Albert Mann 's Pinot Noir Clos de la Faille is an absolute gem in Alsace, and the treasure of the Albert Mann wine estate. The only clos in Alsace entirely dedicated to Pinot Noir, this monopole vineyard is a one-hectare jewel case, nestled in the continuity of the Grand Cru Hengst, in Wintzenheim. It lies on a unique geological fault, where the Vosges bedrock meets a dry, north-east-facing hillside. Planted in 1998, the vines draw on a mineral mosaic of naturally ferruginous red limestone soils punctuated by Muschelkalk sandstone, quartz and pebbles. Together, these elements make up a unique terroir, where coolness preserves the balance of ripeness and gives the grapes a slow evolution, conducive to aromatic finesse.
A forerunner of biodynamic viticulture in Alsace since 1997, the Albert Mann wine estate manages this exceptional terroir with the meticulous care for which it is renowned: hand harvesting, natural winemaking with indigenous yeasts, followed by sixteen months' ageing in used barrels to sublimate aromatic precision and delicately patinate texture.
Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin :Albert Mann 's Pinot Noir Clos de la Faille embodies the success of this regional icon in elevatingAlsace Pinot Noir to the level of great Burgundian expressions. Behind its immediate charm lies a structure and depth that promise a decade of evolution. Clos de la Faille remains a model of precision and energy, made for gastronomy.
The nose opens with a delicate score of crisp red fruits: redcurrant, raspberry and cherry are elegantly wrapped in an impressive floral bouquet with accents of peony, violet and dried rose. Aeration brings out a slight tertiary character of pepper and clove, enriching the depth of the bouquet with beautiful complexity.
On the palate, the attack is silky and subtle, with immediate elegance. The heart of the wine combines finesse and density, with fine, perfectly integrated tannins. The vegetal freshness of the nose is balanced by notes of crunchy red fruit and sweet spices. The impressively long finish stretches out over the minerality of the limestone soil and the delicate imprint of iron, the unique signature of Clos de la Faille.
The palate is immediately striking for its delicacy and refinement. The silky body blossoms over a perfectly integrated, extremely fine tannic structure, while the slender acidity harmoniously structures and balances the whole. Notes of red fruit and sweet spices envelop the palate with great power. The finish takes on mineral accents, leaving a lasting impression of freshness and purity that calls for a second sip.
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