Brett happens

La QV’s Cyril Kérébel recently joined the Mo’ Wine Group to lead a memorable tasting of 12 of his agency’s newly arrived private imports (“truly outstanding,” “one of the best,” “excellentissima” and “a fascinating selection of invariably drinkable wines” were some of the post-tasting comments). We wet our whistles with a wine imported in half bottles in response to local restaurant demand.

Alsace 2007, Riesling, Domaine Moritz ($14.00/375 ml, private import, 12 bottles/case)
The 12-hectare estate is located in Andlau, halfway between Strasbourg and Colmar. Half of its holdings, which include three grand cru vineyards, are given over to Riesling. Farming is, for all intents and purposes, organic but not certified as such. The vines average 40 years old. The grapes for this Riesling (100 %) were manually harvested, gently pressed, fermented with indigenous yeasts and matured in large old oak barrels. 12% ABV. Quebec agent: La QV/Insolite.
Classic and classy nose of lemon/lime, chalk and a hint of petrol. Dry and tart in the mouth. The upfront fruit dissovles in a swirl of minerals and lingers well into the long saline finish. Not particularly deep but pure and delicious. A hit with just about everyone around the table, this versatile wine is light and refreshing enough to make a great aperitif and substantial enough to accompany seafood and white meats. The half-bottle format only adds to the appeal. (Buy again? Definitely.)