Christian Binner ‘Côtes d’AmourSchwir’

Christian Binner ‘Côtes d’AmourSchwir’ – if one could bottle the boundless energy of a child on Christmas Eve, one would likely end up with this elixir sitting humbly a-top their table. This hip-swingin’, chest-thumpin’ vessel of madcap excitement shall once again put rhythm in one’s feet. Binner has blended direct-press Riesling and Pinot Gris with healthy heaps of Gewurtzraminer, Muscat and Auxerrois to create this Alsacian cabochon. Leaping like a preyed-upon frog from glass to nose are ticklish citrus aromas and a curious candied ginger. Furthermore followed by a ripe array of orchard fruits that endeavour to paint the palette. Sudden punches of dried mango, apricot curd and yellow passionfruit lead into a mellow thrust of white pepper. A plump, plush and delightfully complex triumph.

The Binner name has been associated with Alsacian wine-making since 1770. Today, they have six hectares under vine which have been chemical-free for over two decades. Following Christian’s arrival at the domain, an ecologically-inclined philosophy was implemented. Firstly, they harvest slightly later than their neighbours, with a patience that allows for truly ripe yields. They vinify with as few interventionist artifices as possible; neither fining nor filtering, using native yeasts, minimal doses of sulphur etc. Moreover, all the wines undergo a lengthy ageing in centenary oak foudres and are subject to malolactic fermentation. To ensure stability without intervening, the wine is stored under reductive conditions in a cool, damp cellar and it simply cooks. The promotion of an art of healing across all vineyards, coupled with patience in the cellar, delivers deliciously authentic wines.

Christian Binner ‘Côtes d’AmourSchwir’ – a selection of the finest grapes from the Côtes d’AmourSchwir vineyards, a dazzling vessel of balance.