“Too Much and Not the Mood” by Durga Chew-Bose caught me by surprise! It’s a collection of personal essays, and reading it felt like recognizing someone else’s meandering thoughts as my own, spiraling layers and layers downward. Like an iceberg—but that’s a common cliché for such an original, uncommon book. Pinot Gris Roche Calcaire from Domaine Zind-Humbrecht was the perfect match. As exciting as “personal essays” sounds, Pinot Gris sounds, and can be, just as tame. But like the book, Roche Calcaire surprises with its complexity—and residual sugar! Weren’t expecting that, were you? Domaine Zind-Humbrecht is renowned for its strict biodynamic methods and dozens of wine labels that showcase all the different terroirs of Alsace.
ORIGIN
Alsace AOC, France
Grapes
100% Pinot Gris
Tasting Notes
Typical pinot gris opulence tempered by limestone (calcaire) architecture on the palate. This is medium-bodied and fairly dry, with notes of ripe citrus fruit, damp earth and tangy acidity.
Food Match
Perfect with most seafood roasted over charcoal or wood fire, or with chicken & noodle dishes with subtle spice (Thai, Szechuan, etc.)
Diana studied Anthropology at Penn State and Food Culture & Communications at the University of Gastronomic Sciences in Italy. After living la bella vita in Italy for six years, she returned to the U.S. and landed in NYC. She has been working in wine since 2012 and holds WSET 2. Loves Nebbiolo and amaro. Talk to her about Italy.