2022 Pinot Noir Amour Interdit | Domaine Amelie & Charles Sparr [V94]

Domaine Amelie & Charles Sparr’s 2022 Pinot Noir Amour Interdit is a masterclass in Alsace’s untapped potential for bold red wines. Hailing from the sun-drenched slopes of Grand Cru Mambourg—a site planted in 1981 but unofficially revered as grand cru quality—this wine defies regional norms with its structured elegance and cellar-worthy depth. Vinous’ 94-point acclaim underscores its brilliance: a seamless blend of smoky complexity and vibrant red fruit that lingers long after each sip.

Crafted from south-facing vines kissed by Alsace’s golden sunlight, this Pinot Noir unfolds with aromas of ripe cherry and red plum entwined with sultry hints of licorice and crushed stone. Aged in a single 500-liter barrel, its palate reveals fine-spun tannins that frame a core of pure red berry intensity, while limestone-mineral undertones add a crisp, mineral-driven finish. Though youthful austerity persists now, this wine is built for patience—its bold structure promises to soften into silky refinement over decades in the cellar.

Winemaker Charles Sparr’s “forbidden love” project shines here: a bold statement that Alsace’s reds deserve grand cru recognition. With plush texture and energy-driven balance, it pairs effortlessly with rich game dishes or cellar-side contemplation. At 13% alcohol, it strikes a harmonious note between power and poise—a testament to terroir-driven winemaking at its finest. For collectors seeking rare Alsace Pinot Noir with aging potential and layered complexity, Amour Interdit is an indispensable addition to any cellar.