On a foothill of the Vosges Mountains, directly above the Pfaffenheim wine region, the devil had set up camp. A sacred tree grew there, and the druids had built a tabular altar nearby.

A peasant claimed one day to have discovered a miraculous, protective statue of the Virgin Mary. And so, a chapel was built in full sight of the plain. Many pilgrims made their way up to that new shrine to worship Mary and repent of their wrong-doings.

This greatly angered the devil. The druids disappeared, the sacred tree was decorated with a supposedly holy statuette, and the forest was deserted by his evil creatures, instead offering a safe welcome to all travellers.

But then, something extraordinary happened: the rock grew softer and softer until it had the consistency of a slab of butter left out in a heat wave! The devil dug his claws into that mass which eventually slipped and fell to the ground, regaining its normal consistency.

Now it lays there by the side of the road, with the devil's claw marks forever imprinted in the stone. This is how La Griffe du Diable ("The Devil's Claw" in French) got its name.

Grape varieties

Pinot Noir

Alcohol

alc 13% vol.

Terroir

These grapes come from mid-slope vineyards. That land is preferred for its southeastern exposure and for the shelter provided by the Vosges. These points contribute to the unique microclimate of those plots of vines. The soil is shallow there, often rich in stone from limestone and clay limestone sub-soils. The number and size of the grape clusters are verified manually, plant by plant. Only the best plots and vintages are chosen for blending.

Winemaking

Controlled fermentation in stainless steel tanks with the marc punched down daily. Maceration takes 10 to 15 days. Aged for 19 months in oak barrels (75% new barrels) for more powerful wine with polished tannins.

Tasting Notes

Red velvet colour with dark red glints. Powerful, deep nose expressing hints of black cherry, pomegranate and kirsch. Woody aromas set off this wine with mild vanilla and nutmeg spices, as well as touches of smokiness and liquorice. It expands on the attack, filling the palate with its flavours. Structured and powerful with a long finish, this is a gourmet wine indeed.

Food Pairing

Game meat, meat with gravy, barbecue and terrines.

Ageing Potential

This wine is ready to drink but can also be enjoyed after a few years of cellaring.