Etienne Simonis "Vieilles Vignes" Sylvaner 2020
We have 13 in stock (Inventory is live and accurate)
The Land
Nestled in the heart of Alsace, the Etienne Simonis Vieilles Vignes Sylvaner is sourced from vineyards near Ammerschwihr, where old vines—some over 50 years old—thrive in of granite and alluvial soils. This stony, mineral-rich terroir imparts crisp precision to the wine, while Alsace’s cool continental climate, with generous sunshine, allows the Sylvaner grapes to ripen slowly, balancing delicate aromatics with lively acidity. Here, the intersection of soil, vine age, and climate creates a distinctive character—fresh, mineral, and effortlessly elegant.
The Wine
The nose offers aromas of yellow flowers, Bosc pear, line curd followed by hints of wet stone and green apple. On the palate, this wine is rich, with bright acidity balancing rather opulent ripe fruit. A subtle saline edge, a hallmark of the local terroir, adds depth to the long finish. The extended aging gives the wine added texture and complexity, resulting in a vibrant yet refined expression of Sylvaner—a variety often underestimated but in the same realm as Riesling with complexity and depth.
The People
When Etienne Simonis took over the primary responsibility for the family’s vineyards from his father René in 1996, he embarked on a path familiar to many in his generation: organic farming, reduced yields, extremely gentle pressing, reduced sulphur use, and an emphasis on long, careful aging. Over the years, Simonis mastered the delicate balance between oxidative and reductive winemaking, all while staying committed to natural practices.
We ship wine to most states with a $100 minimum order for shipping. We don't ship spirits nor beer.
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The Alsace wine region is located in northeastern France and is known for producing aromatic white wines. The region benefits from a cool climate with a combination of continental and maritime influences, allowing for the cultivation of grape varieties like Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris. Pinot Noir has also been making major strides in this border region.
