Christian Binner ‘AmourSchwihr Pinots’

Christian Binner ‘AmourSchwihr Pinots’ – a lively, uplifting “blouge” that is sure to put some heart into one’s laugh. Binner co-ferments 75% Pinot Gris and 25% Pinot Noir, choosing only the finest grapes from various sites around Ammerschwihr. They are hand-harvested and ferment together as whole bunches before undergoing a gentle foot-tread. The ageing process lasts between 12 and 18 months in large oak foudres. Brimming with a racy red fruit character, the majority white Pinot offers a tremendous aromatic twist. Gradually unfurling across one’s palate are balanced herbal notes and a cleansing mineral finish, complemented by a juicy tannic structure.

The Binner name has been associated with Alsatian winemaking since 1770. Today, they farm six hectares that have been chemical-free for over two decades. They harvest slightly later than their neighbours, with a patience that allows for truly ripe fruit, and vinify with as little intervention as possible: neither fining nor filtering, native yeasts and minimal sulphur. The wines age at length in century-old oak foudres, undergo malolactic fermentation and rest under reductive conditions in a cool, damp cellar. Patience in the vineyard and in the cellar delivers deliciously authentic wines.

Christian Binner ‘AmourSchwihr Pinots’ – simply 75 centilitres of excitable personability that shall brighten one’s day. A terrific showcase of the best of Alsace terroir.