Charta Luxembourg - Gewürztraminer Max-Lahr & Fils

The Gewürztraminer Charta “Ahn Göllebour” 2020 from Domaine Max Lahr & Fils shows how much depth can develop when patience, craftsmanship, and origin come together. It bears the quality seal of the Charta Privatwënzer, an independent commission that sets strict standards for terroir fidelity, yield limitation, and artisanal winemaking. Only wines that meet these high standards may display the seal—a mark of authenticity and verified quality. The Göllebour parcel in Ahn lies on shell limestone, a soil that is not deep but highly distinctive. Its mix of stone and heavy lime gives wines minerality, density, and precise structure. The full southern exposure allows the grapes to reach optimal ripeness—an essential factor for this aromatic variety. Yields are limited to just 50 hectoliters per hectare, concentrating flavor and giving the wine its defined character. As a Charta-certified wine, the Gewürztraminer undergoes an elaborate approval process. The vineyards are inspected twice, evaluated, and tasted by an expert jury of sommeliers, journalists, and winemakers before being authorized. The goal is to highlight the best of Luxembourgish winemaking—wines that reflect their origin, personality, and artisanal precision. Because of these lengthy examinations, Charta wines reach the market a year later, gaining additional maturity and depth. In the glass, the Gewürztraminer appears elegant, round, and aromatic. Typical of the variety, it unfolds notes of rose, lychee, and violet, accompanied by hints of tropical fruit and a gentle suggestion of pineapple on the finish. Despite its roughly 20 grams of residual sugar, the wine does not taste heavy or sweet. On the contrary, subtle acidity and clear structure keep it fresh. The result is a stylistic balance that aligns more closely with the Luxembourgish interpretation—refined, less opulent, and marked by finesse. The winemaker describes it as a wine of charm and versatility. It works equally well as an aperitif or with food—melon with ham, cheese platters, foie gras, or desserts with chocolate and vanilla ice cream with fruit. Its gentle residual sweetness also makes it a fine partner for Asian cuisine with spicy or slightly hot elements. Today, only a few Luxembourgish winemakers still produce Gewürztraminer as a Charta wine. The effort required is immense, but the result speaks for itself: a characterful, fragrant wine with depth, maturity, and personality. This wine proves that Gewürztraminer can show elegance and expression without excessive sweetness. A wine of patience, precision, and soul—aromatic but never loud.