Alsace Riesling Schlossberg Cuvée Sainte Catherine Weinbach 1998 (White)

One of the most beautiful properties in Alsace, the Weinbach vineyard covers just over 26 hectares. The Capuchin monks produced a wine from the early 17th century on the historic terroir of the Clos des Capucins (5 hectares enclosed by walls). Sold as a national asset in the French Revolution, the property was acquired in 1898 by the Faller brothers, who passed it on to their son and nephew, Théo. A major figure in French viticulture and an ardent defender of Alsace's vineyards, largely responsible for their being granted AOC status, Théo Faller died in 1979. His wife Colette and her daughters Catherine and Laurence took charge of the property and continued to build its reputation; it is now known all over the world. Located at the base of the majestic Schlossberg hill, it benefits from an exceptional position that has all of the geological and climate characteristics usually associated with Alsace's finest wines. The vineyard is tended with a deep respect for nature and with a view to expressing each terroir. The harvests are delayed until optimal ripeness; after rigorous selection the grapes are gently, progressively pressed, followed by long fermentations in old oak casks. The property produces successful generic cuvées, but really stands out for its grandes cuvées, named after members of the family, and associated with each terroir.

Le grand cru Schlossberg est un terroir granitique excellent pour le riesling. C'est le plus ancien grand cru d'Alsace. La richesse des sols (divers minéraux rencontrés) permet une belle complexité et multiplicité des arômes. Le domaine est conduit en biodynamie depuis 2005. La cuvée Sainte-Catherine provient du riesling (100%) cultivé en partie basse du coteau. Les vignes Sainte Catherine ont une soixantaine d'années. Les vendanges sont manuelles.
La vinification est peu interventionniste. Le pressurage est doux et progressif. Les fermentations (avec levures indigènes) sont longues en foudres de chênes. A la dégustation, le nez donne un bouquet de fleurs blanches et de fruits exotiques. La bouche est intense, tirant sur des notes d'agrumes confits notamment. La finale est magnifique, exaltant de fraicheur minérale. Ce grand riesling a un excellent potentiel de garde (15-20 ans). Servez-le frais, à 12°C. Pour un accord mets-vins parfait, pensez à une terrine de Saint-Jacques, un pavé de sandre au beurre blanc ou un dos de cabillaud avec sa fondue de poireaux.

Consult price estimate for: Weinbach