We’re just off the back of our eleventh Annual Christmas Wine Tasting and it always intrigues me to see which out of the 60 odd wines seems to generate the most buzz. I was thrilled to find that it was none other than an Alsace Pinot Blanc. I’ve always been a fan of Alsace wines and many would recognise it more for its wonderful Riesling, Gewurztraminer and Pinot Gris however we have a special soft spot for Pinot Blanc because, to us, it just seems so very relaxed and easy—and inexpensive to boot. While there are many different producers, a handful of big players are widely distributed, Trimbach has been one of that’s featured with us in the past, while our all-time favourite is Domaines Schlumberger. Under the rules of Alsace, a wine called Pinot Blanc can actually be made from any blend of Pinot Blanc and a grape called Auxerrois, which is Pinot Blanc’s traditional blending partner in Alsace. As a result, some wines labelled Pinot Blanc are 100% varietal Pinot Blanc, while Schlumberger, for instance, is 30% Pinot Blanc and 70% Auxerrois. This is so very easy—perfectly balanced fruit and acidity with some weight, but not too much. Melons and spices with a freshness and balance that will make you sit up and take Pinot Blanc seriously. Domaines Schlumberger ‘Les Princes Abbes’ Pinot Blanc (£13).
http://oldlockett.making.me.uk/shop/schlumberger-pinot-blanc/
