The 1998 vintage for Alsace Gewurztraminer Sélection de Grains Nobles, while part of a vintage where overall quality varied, is known for producing wines of exceptional concentration and remarkable aging potential. These sweet wines are a testament to Alsace's ability to craft world-class dessert wines. 【Exceptional concentration and remarkable aging potential】. Expect a wine with a bright pale yellow color. The nose typically offers complex aromas of honey, honeysuckle, crème brûlée, dried fruits, aromatic oils, and exotic spices like lychee. On the palate, it should present a beautiful balance between intense sweetness and a refreshing, sharp acidity, with flavors of orange and apricot. Despite its age, a well-preserved 1998 SGN can still show remarkable freshness and vibrancy. Food pairing suggestions: This opulent sweet wine is an excellent match for fruit-based desserts such as apple tarts or crème brûlée. It also pairs wonderfully with exotic fruit salads, or can be a delightful accompaniment to slightly spicy or aromatic dishes, such as a saffron tagine with seafood, or a classic foie gras. Event suggestions: This is a wine for special occasions, celebrations, or a contemplative evening. Its richness and complexity make it perfect for a luxurious dessert course or as a standalone experience to be savored. While 1998 isn't extremely old, a wine of this age and style benefits from careful handling. Ensure the bottle is stored horizontally in a cool, dark place. When serving, be mindful of the cork, which may be fragile. Decanting is generally not necessary for sweet wines of this age unless there's significant sediment, but allowing it to breathe for a short period in the glass can help its complex aromas unfold. Serve slightly chilled, around 10-12°C (50-54°F).