The 'S' in the name refers to the Sommerberg Grand Cru vineyard where this Pinot Noir is planted. Alsatian label laws have not caught up to the increased quality and popularity of red wines in recent warmer years, so although this is absolutely Grand Cru Pinot Noir, the Sommerberg vineyard name is still not approved for use on red wine labels.

The 2020 vintage was one of the best for Pinot Noir that Alsace has ever had, and Boxler produced a stellar example which I tasted on my visit to the estate in 2025. The fruit is 100% from the Sommerberg Grand Cru, a steep hill that can be seen from the large window in the Boxler tasting room, hand-picked and partially destemmed, fermented in temp-controlled tanks with native yeasts and aged only in neutral barrels. Domaine Albert Boxler strikes a precise balance between traditional methods and common sense use of modern technology to produce what I humbly believe to be the best wine in this historic region.

Boxler's Pinot Noir delicately balances every flavor you could want from this noble varietal, neither too fruity nor too earthy, in a lively and nuanced package framed by just the driest and purest outline of cherry and spice notes. It is yet more generous with its expression than you would expect, and the tannins are exceptionally smooth and buttery, softly dressing a core of precise acidity and freshness. This is THE wine to show you that Alsace is more than a white wine region. For lovers of delicate and complex Pinot Noir, I would recommend this bottle over most Burgundy at this price. 

Grape: Pinot Noir

Soil: Steep sandy granite slopes

Viticulture: Organic 

Pairing: Tarte Flambée with Lardons