Ginglinger-Fix Crémant d'Alsace Extra Brut 2023

Set amongst a fairytale backdrop featuring the snow-capped Swiss Alps towering above the Jura Mountains, you'll find the good folks of Ginglinger-Fix. Their estate here in Alsace has been in the family's hands since 1831, though they have seemingly always farmed this 7.5-hectare plot. This area was famously one that was derided as far back as 1771 with the notion of being unsuitable to farming… "The soil is so full of gravel and stones that it doesn't give back the seed of the grains." Maybe so, but it makes ideal land for tending world-class vines, as long as you can find those willing to put in the work!

While the winery is best known for their Grand Cru Riesling and Gewurztraminer, it was their stunningly crisp and layered Crémants that first grabbed our attention. This 2023 bottling is a classic Alsatian blend of Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay, made in the traditional method – aged for 3 years on the lees and riddled by hand before disgorgement. Its Extra Brut dosage is barely there, at just 2 grams per liter, allowing all the stony Alsatian character to shine through.

On the nose, it opens with cider apples and warm cinnamon strudel, layered over a distinct foundation of wet stone. The palate follows with ripe peach and a savory lift of thyme, all wrapped up in bright, mouthwatering lemon drops. With fine, persistent bubbles and that low-dosage precision, this is dry, mineral, and fabulously food-friendly – think oysters, roast chicken, or shrimp scampi – while still being a joy to sip entirely on its own. Crisp and linear yet full of character, for only $22, it’s something you should be sure to always have on hand! You never know when you’ll need an easy and delicious bottle of bubbles to open.