The 2018 Domaine Schoffit Gewürztraminer Rangen Grand Cru ‘Clos St Théobald’ Vendanges Tardives is a magnificent late-harvest Alsace Grand Cru that combines the exotic richness of Gewürztraminer with the extraordinary volcanic minerality of the legendary Rangen vineyard. Produced from exceptionally ripe fruit harvested well beyond normal maturity, this wine delivers remarkable concentration, complexity and ageing potential while retaining the freshness and structure that make the finest Rangen wines so distinctive. The Clos St Théobald parcel is one of the most celebrated sites in Alsace, producing wines of immense character and longevity.
The nose is intensely aromatic and captivating, revealing layers of lychee, rose petal, Turkish delight and orange blossom alongside ripe peach, apricot and exotic spice. With aeration, additional notes of honey, candied citrus, ginger and smoky volcanic minerality emerge, creating an incredibly complex and seductive bouquet. The hallmark floral perfume of Gewürztraminer is beautifully complemented by the smoky, flinty character that defines the Rangen terroir.
On the palate, it is rich, powerful and luxurious with remarkable concentration and texture. Layers of lychee, ripe stone fruits, candied citrus and floral spice are supported by fine tannins, vibrant acidity and a distinctive crushed-rock minerality. Despite its substantial sweetness, the wine remains balanced and focused, with the volcanic terroir providing tension, freshness and structure throughout. The finish is exceptionally long, creamy and persistent, carrying notes of rose petals, spice, honey and saline minerality long after the wine has left the palate. This is a profound Vendanges Tardives that showcases both the opulence of late-harvest Gewürztraminer and the extraordinary character of Rangen Grand Cru.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is an exceptional choice for collectors and lovers of world-class dessert and late-harvest wines. Unlike many sweet Gewürztraminers that rely purely on richness and aromatics, the volcanic minerality and natural structure of Rangen provide remarkable balance, sophistication and longevity. This is a serious Grand Cru wine capable of evolving for decades while already offering extraordinary complexity today. Drink now with decanting or cellar confidently through to 2045 and beyond. Perfect with foie gras, blue cheese, washed-rind cheeses, spicy Asian cuisine, duck liver parfait, fruit tarts or enjoyed on its own as a meditation wine.
