The Weinbach 2007 Gewurztraminer Altenbourg Cuvee Laurence combines the themes and virtues of their other bottlings of this vintage and variety, with aromas of litchi, rose, peony, brown spices, bacon, and sea breeze, and a oily palate that is both rich and refreshing, its honeyed waves fascinatingly suffused with saline, alkaline, iodine minerality. There’s plenty of finishing smokiness here, but not much heat, in return for which the wine is exceedingly sweet, yet in a way that underscores its liquid perfume character and that does not engulf its mineral complexities. Once could follow this safely for at least 12-15 years, I feel sure. This year, Domaine Weinbach will receive its official certification as organic and biodynamic growers. The Fallers did well in the difficult 2006 vintage – especially with those Gewurztraminer harvested before botrytis gained the upper hand – and with good reason expressed elation over the vibrancy and refinement that characterizes most of 2007s.Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802