This is a mature, complex Gewürztraminer from the prestigious Kessler Grand Cru vineyard. It displays a mid-gold color with intense, developed aromas of savoury earthiness, honey, hints of botrytis, and spice. On the palate, it is quite dry, featuring dominant earthy savoriness, spice, and flavors of dried apricots. The nose is marked by overmaturity with candied notes, light florals, exotic scents, citrus fruits, and grapefruit. In the mouth, it offers an ample, marrowy onset with a vigorous alcoholic base, refreshing vivacity, and candied exotic fruits. The Kessler vineyard, distinguished since 1394 and sold under its own name since 1830, lies on reddish soils over Vosges sandstone bedrock, sheltered from cold winds.

Food Pairings:
Ideal with strong cheeses like Munster ripened in Gewurztraminer marc; lobster salad with ginger; spicy Asian dishes such as wok vegetables with soy sauce, Chinese noodles with shrimp, or fish curry risotto; soft washed-rind cheeses like Géromé; and bolder fare like roast turkey with spiced cranberry sauce.

Critiques & Reviews:   Wine Enthusiast (2011): “Mid-gold color. Intense on the nose, showing lots of developed aromas of savory earthiness and honey, with hints of botrytis and spice adding complexity. Quite dry, with dominant earthy savoriness and spice following through on the palate alongside flavors of dried apricots.” (Implied high rating based on detailed praise; specific score not listed in review). JancisRobinson.com praises Schlumberger as one of the producers who “try hardest” with Gewurztraminers, noting their pungent, dry, and powerful style suitable for savory food.

Drink Window:   Ready to drink from 2012 onward; as of September 2025, it has well surpassed its peak and may show tertiary notes, but time allows further revelation of maturity. Enjoy now while it retains vibrancy.