Brys Estate Vineyard and Winery

Visiting Brys Estate vineyard and winery on Michigan's Old Mission Peninsula does not remind one of Alsace. But their 2006 Gewurztraminer does – and back in the days when the Alsace style was totally dry and crisp, not the highly viscous and sweeter wines the region produces today.

True varietal floral perfume, spicy and lychee aromas are delicate and not in your face. Flavors are hallmarked by lychee, ground coriander spice, fresh ginger and citrus hints. Sprightly acidity, nice viscosity, and a creamy, generous full finish cry out for Thai dishes. But even better are Indian curries. It's also a pleasant sipper on its own.

The 25 planted acres on the 80-acre Brys Estate have been carefully set in blocks to have the different varieties, such as Gewurztraminer, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris and Riesling among white varieties and Pinot Noir, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon among the reds, planted to specific soil types that suit each variety best.

Brys Estate owners Eileen and Walter Brys and their 32-year-old South African born and educated winemaker/consultant Cornel Olivier fit all the pieces together well for this Old Mission Peninsula AVA winery, now attracting more than local attention with an ever-growing wine production.

Reviewed July 15, 2007 by Eleanor & Ray Heald.

Other Awards & Accolades

Gold Medal - 2007 Michigan Wine & Spirits Competition