Alcohol: 14%
Grape(s): 100% Gewurztraminer
Location: Alsace, France
Tasting Notes: An intense bouquet displays rich aromas of fruit, flowers and spices. Powerful and seductive with just a hint of sweetness over well-balanced acidity,
Food pairing: Gewürztraminer pairs beautifully across a wide spectrum of flavors: its aromatic intensity and slight sweetness make it a natural companion to Asian cuisine such as Thai curries or Szechuan stir-fries, where spice and heat are balanced by the wine’s lush fruit. It also complements cheese selections such as Munster, blue cheese, or aged Gouda, enhancing their richness with floral notes. For heartier fare, rich meats like duck confit or pork belly find harmony in Gewurztraminer’s weight and spice. Even in vegetarian dishes, roasted root vegetables with aromatic spices are elevated by the wine’s exotic character, making it a versatile choice for diverse dining experiences.
Winery Story: In the heart of Alsace, a region steeped in vinous history, stands Léon Beyer, an estate with roots deeply entrenched in the soils of winemaking tradition. Since the 1580s, the Beyer family has been synonymous with a legacy of excellence, culminating in the establishment of the modern winery by Emile Beyer in 1867. Today the estate is guided by Marc Beyer, alongside his children Yann-Léon and Anne-Sophie, continuing a lineage that spans 14 generations.
The historical significance of Leon Beyer cannot be overstated. Its inception predates revered names like Trimbach and Hugel, marking it as a true pioneer in Alsace's wine narrative. The wines here are crafted in a distinct "vin d'gastronomie" style - wines of a bone-dry nature, which not only age with grace but also capture the essence of their varietal character and the multifaceted terroir of Alsace.
Geographically, Leon Beyer's vineyards are anchored in Eguisheim, with two eminent Grand Cru sites, Eichberg and Pfersigberg, under its belt. The diverse soils of Alsace, totaling over 20 distinct types, play a pivotal role in sculpting the myriad styles of wine that this region is celebrated for.
Banville's import portfolio of Leon Beyer wines showcases two distinct ranges: "Les Classiques" and "Les Grandes Cuvées." The former is a testament to approachability, offering a fresh and fruity window into Alsace's varietals. The latter, primarily "Grand-Cru" classified, represents the zenith of the estate's winemaking prowess.
Sustainability is more than a buzzword at Leon Beyer; it's a commitment. Their practices have earned them the HVE (High Environmental Value) certification. With 15 hectares of family vineyards and an additional 40 hectares in Eguisheim, worked in close concert with local growers, the Beyers uphold a tradition of winemaking that respects both the land and the legacy of their forebears.
Léon Beyer is not just a winery; it's a beacon of Alsace's rich winemaking history. Here, tradition melds with innovation, and respect for the environment is paramount. Each bottle is a narrative of a family's unyielding devotion to the art of winemaking, a story that continues to captivate wine aficionados across the globe.
