The terroir
Situated on a mound of limestone sandstone, Zellenberg, a small wine-growing town to the east of Riquewihr, overlooks a beautiful vineyard. Facing south-south-east, the Froehn is planted on steep hillsides at an altitude of between 270 and 300 metres and covers 14.60 hectares.
It is a clayey-marl terroir of the Lias, made up of dark grey schistose marl with fine white limestone beds and carbonate and iron nodules.
Froehn favours the cultivation of Gewurztraminer, Tokay Pinot Gris and Muscat.
In his reference work, Médard Barth cites Froehn as one of the finest vintages of its time.
The wines
Froehn wines are distinguished by their fruitiness and fullness. Their richness gives them excellent ageing potential.
Grand Cru Froehn could be described as spherical.
“This vintage unfolds throughout the mouth, appealing to all the taste buds. The palate develops like a funnel. Initially, the attack is a little tight and centred, before opening up with flesh in a full-bodied mid-palate that wraps the acidity in its substance. Aromatic notes of herbs and infusions such as lemon balm and camomile are frequently present. A delicately rough feel introduces a slender, subtle length, marked by salinity and provoking a strong salivation.
It’s a truly distinct terroir that allows each grape variety to find its feet. Muscat and Riesling have a playful, charming fruitiness. Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer are highly mature, often rich in sugar, yet light and easy to digest.”
Vintages
Grand Cru Froehn comes into its own fairly quickly, after 3 to 4 years. It will then age easily for around ten years.
In early vintages, tasty sensations of exotic fruit come to the fore. There are also pastry aromas, particularly in Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer.
In late vintages, notes of dried flowers and herbs are enhanced by a certain austerity in the structure. A slight bitterness underpins the wine’s length.
Pairings
Pairings
This Grand Cru offers a wide range of gastronomic possibilities. Its ample, fleshy texture is at its best with fish or meat stewed or confit: fatty fish en papillotes, veal shoulder confit, meat stew…. The concentration and mellowness present in this type of dish combine with the voluminous body of the wine to create complex, highly flavoursome combinations.
Photo © ZVARDON / Textes CIVA – www.VinsAlsace.com
