An exceptional site :
On the east side of the outmost foothill of the Guebwiller fracture zone, the Spiegel is midway up the gentle slope, ranging from 260 to 315 metres in altitude, above the village of Bergholtz. Here, below the faulted Buntsandstein and Muschelkalk, the Tertiary Rhinegraben border conglomerates are laid down. Mainly sandstone pebbles intersperse with clays and marls, mixed with some talus-slope material coming from the Vosges sandstone. Calcareous material is scarce, but present in the profound subsoil.
The resulting soil is sandy clay, in some places stony, with satisfactory hydrous characteristics.
Favoured varietals :
The 18,26 ha of vineyard are ideally suited to Gewurztraminer and Tokay Pinot Gris, on the lower slope, as well as to Riesling and Muscat on less heavy soils, southeast facing.
Within living memory...
The Spiegel has been mentioned in deeds dating from 1504 ; its renowned wines have been held in great esteem for more than 50 years, during which time its proprietors devoted themselves to maintaining its originality.
Typical characteristics :
Tokay Pinot Gris from this slope fully reflects the true character of the grape variety, with a delicate aroma. The wine is fleshy, opulent and well-built. It ages well.
Gewurztraminer, usually dry, opulent in certain vintages, has a powerful floral bouquet with spicy hints which combine harmoniously into a fine distinguished whole.
Riesling is remarkably fine and racy with a long finish on the palate.
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