It's time for fireside fondue and an après-ski drink! We have Champagne dupes, aromatic and mineral-driven whites, and gently spiced, fruit-forward reds. This month's case represents exquisite wines from France, Italy, and Switzerland.
Case of the Month Highlights
Elena Walch 2023 Pinot Grigio
This Pinot Grigio from Alto Adige has been ranked #33 on the Wine Spectator Top 100 Wines of 2024 and is also featured in our Alpine case of the month for December! It offers complex notes of peppery wet stones, tart green pear, and mountain herbs, making it approachable and stimulating. This wine is perfect for pairing with a winter seafood tower or a cheese plate.
Elena Walch is an architect who married into a winemaking family in Alto Adige, Italy's northernmost wine region, located high in the Alps. She quickly established a reputation in the area and is well-regarded for her varietal wines and blends. We carry several of her wines, so be sure to see why she is a favorite at the Bottle Shop!
Léon Beyer Riesling & Pinot Noir
Alsace is a wine region in northeastern France with historical ties to Germany. Its distinct identity is shaped by a warm, dry climate and the protective Vosges Mountains, which allow southwest-facing vineyards to receive ample sunlight for grape ripening. While aromatic wines like Riesling are often seen as overly sweet in the U.S., Alsace wines are typically fermented dry, offering rich flavors and bright acidity that complement many dishes. The Beyer Family has been part of this winemaking tradition since the 1580s, blending heritage with sustainable practices for future generations.
Our December case of the month features several wines from Alsace, including these two from Léon Beyer: a Riesling with lime peel and elderflower aromas, complemented by subtle tropical fruit notes and a mineral backbone with citrusy acidity and a Pinot Noir with bright red fruit flavors, supported by distinct Alpine herbs that enhance its delicate structure. These wines would make a wonderful pairing for a winter meal.