Spiegel stretches mid-hill onto the boundaries of Guebwiller and Bergholtz.
On an average slope between 260 and 315m, it faces east. Its Oligocene substrate of conglomerates (mostly sandstone pebbles) and interstratified Latdorfian-age marl is partially covered by scree and Triassic sandstone-colluvium showing on the surface upstream. The soil produced from this substrate has a clayey-sandy texture with reasonable hydraulic characteristics.
The 18.26ha of this terroir are perfect for Gewurztraminer and Pinot Gris to grow, as well as Riesling and Muscat over its meridional slope.
Spiegel has been known for already over 50 years, a period during which the owners of the Cru decided to persevere in keeping its originality.
The Pinot Gris from this terroir fully reveals this specific variety with its fine aromas: the wine is fleshy, smooth and robust. It is a wine which ages well. Gewurztraminer, most often sweet, and high in sugar during certain years, has a powerful aroma along with a floral and spicy-aroma bouquet which inter-blends harmoniously to form a fine and suave whole. Riesling is remarkable with its finesse, elegance and persistence on the palate.
One can find both fresh and succulent wines, almost subtle, as well as sweet, complex and fleshy ones. A carefully-calculated and angular freshness appear to be the distinctive feature of this Cru, especially when it slips into juicy and delicious wines. Riesling and Muscat play on their subtle aromas of white flowers and herbal teas. Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer are often picked when over-ripe, developing notes of dried and candied fruits. There is a refined balance and length, present in all the grape varieties. Romain Ilitis
Meilleur Sommelier de France 2012 & Meilleur Ouvrier de France 2015
Consommation
This is wine which is delicious almost immediately. After three to four years, its balance offers a full aromatic variety whilst preserving a simplistic spirit. Over-ripe wine obviously ages perfectly.
During early vintage: yellow fruit notes (quince and Mirabelle plum for example) unfold within a tender structure. The generous structure blends with a salty character and to mentholated fragrances.
During late vintage: the wine intensity and saltiness give a succulent and refined sensation, offering a range of greatly complex aromas for the grape varieties.
Pairing
The wine freshness enables pairing with fatty or heavy dishes as it provides appeasing capacities. Freshwater fish with sauce (creamy or not) allows Riesling and Muscat wines to liven up the mouth, revealing the distinct minerality in the length. Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer, marked by the same intensity, give desserts (with cream or mousse) an identical combination.
Text from CIVA website vinalsace.com
