What better way to welcome in warm weather than with a glass of chilled Edelzwicker? The noble—Edel—wine grape varieties of Alsace were selected because of their outstanding aroma and flavor profiles: Gewürztraminer, Riesling, Pinot Gris and Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains. Centuries ago, a blend—Zwicker—of these varieties was considered better than any single variety on its own. Gewürztraminer—49% of this bottling—brings lychee and tangerine aromas and flavors to the cuvée.
Navarro's aromatic white grape varietals are fermented in 250- to 1,500-gallon French oak ovals and aged sur lie for seven months, September through April. After the cask is cleaned, it is filled with sulfur dioxide gas, repeated monthly, until ready for wine during harvest. Ulises can be seen here sucking out any remaining gas (pictured at left) before entering the cask to scrub it down a day or two before it is filled with fresh juice (pictured at right).
Since Gewürz tends to have low acidity, adding Riesling and Pinot Gris—43% and 8% of the blend respectively—keeps the wine crisp and refreshing thanks to their higher acidity. The Riesling sports flavors of peach and green apple and the Pinot Gris adds a viscous quality and aromas that we frequently describe as hazelnut oil. We're always amazed that when served at 38°F from a cold refrigerator, Edelzwicker is an aromatic, flavorful and fruit-driven wine, whereas the aromas and flavors of many other varieties are hidden when served at this temperature. So enjoy this wine served cold on a warm summer evening and consider purchasing a case to savor it often at only $16.75 per bottle! Gold Medal winner.
