Viniou Reviews
The Cuvée Pinot Gris Mambourg 1999 from Preiss-Zimmer is a distinguished white wine hailing from Alsace, holding the prestigious Grand Cru designation. Crafted exclusively from the Pinot Gris grape variety, this 1999 vintage likely expresses notable maturity, capturing the complex aromatic evolution typical of well-aged Alsace whites. The grapes are sourced from the renowned Mambourg Grand Cru vineyard, celebrated for its unique terroir marked by rich marl-limestone soils and a sun-drenched exposure that encourages optimal grape ripening. Traditional vinification methods in Alsace often involve slow, gentle pressing of whole grapes and fermentation in large old oak casks, which helps preserve the opulent fruit character and balances natural acidity.
Alsace itself is a region steeped in viticultural history, nestled along France’s eastern border. Shielded by the Vosges Mountains, Alsace benefits from a semi-continental climate, which provides cool nights and dry seasons conducive to the slow ripening of aromatic grape varieties like Pinot Gris. The region’s diverse soils and microclimates have given rise to 51 Grand Cru sites, with Mambourg being one of the oldest and most revered. Its south-facing slopes are particularly favourable for producing richly textured, expressive wines that can age gracefully for decades.
Given the wine’s profile and level of complexity, pairing it with sophisticated dishes is highly recommended. Its richness and evolved aromatic palette lend themselves perfectly to traditional Alsatian fare such as duck with figs, veal in cream sauce, or foie gras terrine, where the wine’s weight and nuanced acidity cut beautifully through rich textures. Outside the regional classics, try it with roasted poultry, mushroom risotto, or even mature, semi-soft cheeses like Comté or aged Gruyère.
To fully appreciate its depth and subtle tertiary notes, serve this Pinot Gris Grand Cru slightly chilled but not too cold, ideally between 10-12°C. Decanting for about 30 minutes before tasting can also allow the aromatic complexity of this mature vintage to fully unfold in the glass.
