Alsace | 2012 vintage
Despite a challenging year in terms of weather (a damp spring which promoted disease, water scarcity in August, and several rainy spells during harvesting), Alsace fared rather well in 2012, in particular the very subtle dry Rieslings with fine pure aromatic notes. In general, it was a better year for dry wines than sweet or dessert wines, as botrytis was scarce in 2012. Success stories also include Pinot Gris, but by contrast Gewurztraminer was the worst affected grape variety. As always, in testing years, generic wines often suffer most, whereas grands crus fare better, especially those produced by organic or biodynamic wine growers. This is a real asset for Alsace which has a many wine growers accredited to practise this type of viticulture!
