1998 Wolfberger Gewurztraminer Vendanges Tardives, Alsace, France

The 1998 Wolfberger Gewurztraminer Vendanges Tardives from Alsace is a richly expressive late-harvest wine made from overripe Gewurztraminer grapes, often touched by noble rot. Though detailed notes for this vintage are rare, its style is well known and admired. Here’s what you can expect:

Nose: A heady bouquet of exotic fruit, lychee, mango, and rose petal, layered with honey, spice, and a touch of candied citrus. With age, it may also reveal hints of marzipan and toasted nuts.

Palate: Lush and velvety, offering flavors of ripe tropical fruit, orange marmalade, and gingerbread spice. The sweetness is generous but balanced by a gentle acidity, giving it elegance and lift.

Finish: Long and smooth, with lingering notes of honeyed fruit, floral spice, and a soft nutty warmth.This wine is a treasure of Alsace, known for its ability to age gracefully while retaining aromatic intensity. It pairs beautifully with foie gras, blue cheese, or spiced desserts like poached pears or ginger cake.