Valentin Zusslin ‘Ophrys’ Pinot Noir, 2023, 750ml

Description

Ophrys is an unconventional cuvée that does not conform to traditional Alsatian standards—almost conceptual in nature. The idea is to offer a juicy, generous, ripe, and versatile wine, evoking fresh fruit and an abundance of pleasure. To achieve this, we chose an uncommon technique: blending direct-pressed Pinot Noir with Pinot Gris undergoing a double maceration. The Pinot Gris is first macerated on its skins for one week; after racking, it is macerated again for about a week on Pinot Noir skins. This method allows for the extraction of a beautiful garnet color, fresh fruit aromas, and an exceptionally fine, digestible tannic texture. In 2023, the blend consists of two-thirds Pinot Noir and one-third Pinot Gris, all sourced from the Bollenberg vineyard site. The wine takes its name from this hill: Ophrys is a genus of orchids (notably Ophrys Bumblebee and Ophrys Bee) native to the Bollenberg hillside. A wine paying tribute to the finesse and delicacy of these precious little flowers.