Pinot Noir Gallus 2023 Meyer Fonné | Alsace

Pinot Noir Gallus Domaine du Meyer-Fonné is a prestige cuvée produced in tribute to Gallus Meyer, the family's forefather and wine estate pioneer, who arrived in Katzenthal in 1732. Its exceptional location on the edge of the Grand Cru Kaefferkopf, on a southwest-facing marl-limestone parcel, makes thisAlsace wine the embodiment of an ambitious vision of Pinot Noir. The Jurassic marl and limestone soil favors slow, complete ripening of the berries, while giving the wine good acidity, depth and a precise mineral structure. The grapes come from a rigorous selection process, with part of the bunches vinified whole to preserve the purity of the fruit and the finesse of the tannins. After cold pre-fermentation maceration, natural fermentation with indigenous yeasts ensures respect for the grape's delicate texture. Ageing for fifteen months in oak barrels for several wines adds depth and elegance, without overpowering the character of the terroir, to preserve all the vitality and identity of this unique cuvée.

Philippe Mischler sommelier at Mundovin : Domaine Meyer-Fonné 's Pinot Noir Gallus is a wine of remarkable precision and depth, distinguished by its masterful balance of fruit, tannic texture and mineral energy. This is a cuvée of style as much as substance, built for ageing but already splendid in its youth. A rare demonstration of the very best that Alsace can produce in Pinot Noir.

On opening, the nose is deep and concentrated, exhaling a framework of dark red fruit that is still restrained. Aeration reveals aromas of morello cherry and wild blackberry, dried peony, licorice stick and light tobacco.

On the palate, the wine's attack is supple, almost caressing. The tannins are present but perfectly polished, with remarkable finesse, reminiscent of the great expressions of Pinot Noir on limestone soils. The mid-palate is ample, almost velvety, revealing hints of graphite, candied Morello cherry, fine spices and an underlying salinity that prolongs the finish.