Domaine Meyer-Fonne Gentil D'Alsace 2005

Near the border of France and Germany (near Switzerland), Alsace is the origin of the most exotic white wine variety in the world, Gewürztraminer. Spicy pungent and dry, it is not to be confused with American Gewürztraminer which is often sweet and rarely as perfumed. A fine Alsatian Gewürztraminer can be pricey and overpowering for an everyday appetizer, but you can get a sense of the region with a well made blend from the area like this one.

François & Félix Meyer farm and make a full line of boutique wines from their estate of less than 30 acres near Katzenthal. Gentil D'Alsace is their entry level cuveé but the quality is excellent and the wine charismatic. The blend is centered on Muscat and Pinot Blanc with Riesling and Gewürztraminer providing its signature.

Excellent value ($14). Closure: real cork. Alcohol content: 12%.

Style: Light, fruity, some spice, somewhat exotic, crisp.

Tasting Notes: Appearance: Light golden straw. Aromas: Apple, apricot, ginger and clove. Light to medium bodied for a white wine, and showing just a slight ray of honeyed sweetness, the slightly spicy fruit tart flavors lean exotic and finish with a nice question mark which asks: what is this?

Comment: It's like getting bumped up to first class. Enjoy it with a good view and give a nice hand to the Meyers and importer Kermit Lynch.