At an altitude of 275 metres, the Sporen is a gently sloping natural cirque facing south-east. It is made up of clayey-marl soils from the Lias, decalcified at the surface, and exceptionally rich in phosphoric acid, a factor in precocity and a sign of quality. Its deep soils, protected from drought in years of low rainfall, allow the vine roots to explore the soil in search of the trace elements that contribute to the complexity of the wines.
Covering an area of 23.70 hectares, the Sporen is mainly planted with Gewurztraminer and Pinot Gris.
The archives of the Dukes of Württemberg mention Sporen as far back as 1432. In 1580, Fischart ranked it first among Alsace wines:
« Doch gegen den Reichenweier Sporen haben Sie alle das Spiel verloren. »
It has been marketed under the name of its cru for centuries.
Sporen wines are characterised by finesse and breed, richness and elegance. They are remarkable wines for laying down.
Photo © ZVARDON / Textes CIVA – www.VinsAlsace.com
