As I prepare for my upcoming trip to Luxembourg, I decided it was time to start exploring some of the country's wines. I opened a bottle of Domaine Cep d'Or 2023 Auxerrois Coteaux de Stadtbredimus, and all I can say is wow.
This was my first experience with the Auxerrois grape, and it certainly won't be my last. The wine immediately grabbed my attention with its freshness, bright fruit character, and wonderful balance. It's exactly the kind of wine that makes you stop, look at the label, and wonder why you've never been drinking it all along.
Meet the Auxerrois Grape
Auxerrois is a white grape variety that is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors like Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Chardonnay. Auxerrois (also known as Auxerrois Blanc) is a white grape variety that is something of an unsung hero in the wine world. It is most closely associated with the Moselle Valley — both in Luxembourg and Alsace — and is believed to be a natural crossing of Pinot Blanc and Gouais Blanc.
In Luxembourg, Auxerrois is considered a true specialty of the Moselle, where
the cool climate and mineral-rich soils allow it to express a particularly
fine, aromatic character. The grape tends to produce wines with moderate to
good acidity, soft fruit profiles centered on apple and pear, and a gentle
floral or spice note depending on how it's handled. At its best, it carries
that signature Moselle minerality — a chalky, stony quality that gives the wine
structure and a long, clean finish.
Tasting Notes
The 2023 Domaine Cep d'Or Auxerrois opens with inviting aromas of fresh apple, ripe pear, and just a hint of citrus.
On the palate, the wine delivers exactly what the nose promises. Crisp orchard fruit flavors dominate, with notes of green apple and juicy pear leading the way. A touch of citrus adds brightness, while lively acidity keeps everything fresh and energetic.
What really impressed me was the underlying minerality. There's a subtle stony character that provides structure and complexity without overwhelming the fruit.
The finish is clean, refreshing, and leaves you immediately wanting another sip.
Food Pairing Suggestions
The bright acidity and fresh fruit profile make this a versatile food wine.
I would happily pair it with:
- Fresh seafood
- Grilled white fish
- Chicken piccata
- Summer salads
- Goat cheese
- Asparagus dishes
- Pork schnitzel
- Mild cheeses
It would also make a fantastic aperitif wine on a warm afternoon.
About Domaine Cep d'Or
Located in the village of Stadtbredimus along Luxembourg's Moselle River, Domaine Cep d'Or is a family-owned estate with roots dating back to 1762 when the Vesque family settled in the region. Today, the winery farms approximately 18 hectares of vineyards on the steep limestone and marl slopes that overlook the Moselle.
The unique terroir around Stadtbredimus consists of calcareous marl, limestone, and clay-rich soils that contribute freshness, aromatic intensity, and minerality to the wines. The estate focuses on quality-driven viticulture, practicing sustainable farming and reducing yields to maximize grape quality rather than quantity.
Cep d'Or produces many of Luxembourg's traditional varieties, including Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, and Auxerrois. The winery has earned recognition for its still wines and Crémants while continuing a family winemaking tradition that spans more than 250 years.
Final Thoughts
One of my favorite things about wine is that there is always something new to discover.
This bottle reminded me exactly why I love exploring lesser-known wine regions and grapes. Luxembourg may not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of wine, but if this Auxerrois is any indication, it deserves a place on every wine lover's radar.
I can't wait to get to Luxembourg and continue my exploration of its wines firsthand. That will have to wait until the fall.
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