Domaine Weinbach Riesling Schlossberg Grand Cru

Riesling is one of the native grapes of Alsace. Not Alsace, not Riesling, you might say. Of all of them, the most special is undoubtedly located right in the centre of the region, in the Schlossberg Grand Cru, the oldest of them all. And this wine, Domaine Weinbach Riesling Schlossberg Grand Cru is born here.

Schlossberg wines were already known to be of high quality in the 15th century, before any kind of regulation or denomination. That fame is still strong today and is still well-deserved. Circumstances may change, but what doesn’t is the granite-based soil, where sand and minerals like potassium, magnesium, fluorine and phosphorus are mixed. Thanks to this combination, elegant and fine wines can be made. All these nuances are enhanced thanks to the fully biodynamic cultivation. Domaine Weinbach, under the direction of the Faller family, was one of the pioneers in implementing organic agriculture. Not satisfied with the results, in 1998 they decided to go one step further and began a biodynamic trial on a few hectares. The pilot was so successful that finally, in 2005, the 38 hectares of Domaine Weinbach became completely biodynamic.

This involved putting into practice a series of non-negotiable principles like manual labour, homemade remedies and the elimination of any chemicals. Harvesting is done by hand and the grapes are selected. Only the best will make it to the winery, where they will ferment in French oak barrels. Previously, the Domaine Weinbach Riesling Schlossberg Grand Cru must will have been obtained gently, exerting low and progressive pressures, obtaining a clean and clear must. Fermentation is spontaneous, using native yeasts, without any kind of intervention. The work of the yeasts does not end here, since once they are dead (when fermentation is finished) they become known as lees, which spend time in contact with the wine. These remains, which are rich in proteins, soften and round out the wines, giving them a much silkier and more flavoursome taste on the palate.

The taste of Domaine Weinbach Riesling Schlossberg Grand Cru is hard to forget. And you will remember it forever. Nobody said it would be easy to forget one of the best terroirs in the world.