Based in Rorschwihr in Alsace, Domaine Rolly Gassmann is one of the region’s great traditional estates. The Gassmann family has been making wine for generations, with Pierre Gassmann particularly focused on expressing the differences between the estate’s many individual terroirs.
The domaine works mainly with Riesling, Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer, and is known for wines that combine richness and texture with excellent acidity and remarkable ageing potential. Rather than chasing a particular style, the emphasis is on ripe fruit, healthy vineyards and allowing each site to show its character.
A lovely example of how good Sylvaner can be when given the same care and attention as Alsace's more famous varieties. The grapes come from clay, marl and limestone soils around Rorschwihr, and Rolly Gassmann's patient approach gives the wine considerably more depth and richness than the simple, fresh style often associated with Sylvaner.
The nose is ripe and expressive, with white flowers, peach, pear and citrus, alongside hints of almond and a subtle mineral character.
The palate has surprising weight and texture, with ripe stone fruit, lemon and a touch of honeyed richness. There is a little natural sweetness in the wine, but the acidity is lively enough to keep everything fresh and balanced, with a gently saline, slightly bitter note adding definition to the finish.
Excellent with seafood, shellfish, smoked fish, pâté and Alsatian dishes. It also works particularly well with lightly spiced food and young Munster cheese.
