Community Review

Domaine Marcel Deiss Pinot Gris 2005

Alsace, France

Drink: Now

Jenni Onyschuk reviewed this wine as follows:

It’s raining, in Edmonton, in January…. I feel like this is more than enough said. What better day for a trip to the local wine store.
On this particular trip I had the good fortune to stumble upon one of my favorite Varietals with a Decent Vintage.
There it was, staring at me, a 2005 Domaine Marcel Deiss Pinot Gris from Alsace France … I haven’t tried this particular winery yet but am instantly transported to a world full of lees (dead yeast cells which are much tastier than they sound) apricot pie and whatever you might equate to sugar plum fairies dancing through my head.
I knew then that this was the purchase to make for the day.
I get home and decide that I should wait for a bit on this wine. Perhaps save it to share with a friend or maybe for a special occasion, only of course to realize later that there is really no time like the present to take in some tasting notes.
I open the bottle, and for no systematic reason whatsoever, smell the inside of the neck. Perhaps waiting has heightened the anticipation of what this glorious vase shaped vessel has in store for me. I have a front row seat to the unveiling of this beautiful golden straw liquid of such lush viscosity as it coats the inside of my glass.
I look, sniff and taste and I am not disappointed. It smells of a rich mix of dairy fields during a warm summer evening and fresh rows of apple blossoms.
So why would I get so excited about this wine? What’s so special?
Well, I’m big on structure, I like my wine to have body and be a memorable experience.
Years ago when I was just starting out in my love of wine I wanted to find out about different varietals. What struck me about wines from the region of Alsace France was the word "petrol".
Why on earth would anyone enjoy something with the smell of gasoline?!
Upon further discovery the word "apricot, and warm pie" also came to light. YUM! I feel like the whole "petrol" thing derives more from this structure I so feverishly seek out. This particular white grape has phenomenal ageing potential, the older it gets, the stronger, more fragrant and bigger body it possesses.
Alsatian Whites also have the ability to pair well with hard to pair foods.... Have a favorite Thai dish, order a Pinot Gris from Alsace. Need a quick fix to overly spiced Indian cuisine... yup you guessed it!
Reflecting on this wine, absolutely worth a try!
Price point around the $32.00 range and worth every penny.
Much like Rain in January in Edmonton, unique and beautiful… it reminds you of why you love those moments… those “special finds” where you feel privy to know what treasure you’ve discovered.
NOTE FROM THE WRITTER……
I absolutely suggest picking up a bottle yourself. Please do keep in mind that with this varietal you’re looking at a higher price point to get this experience. I’ve had times where I was a bit let down.
Unfortunate to say, I’d stray from the Pierre Sparr (hate to say, but have to be honest), it’s flavor is closer to what you might expect from a Pinot Grigio from Italy, not what I’ve described above.

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