Domaine Andre Kientzler - Cremant d'Alsace Cuvee Millesimee Non Dosee 2017 (12.5% abv)
NOTE - This is a rare/later disgorgement release from the more common bottling seen online (a less expensive version that only saw 30 months on the lees, vs the 50 months this one underwent).
The Kientzler domaine is a small, 5th generation family-run estate spread out over the villages of Ribeauvillé, Bergheim, Hunawihr and Riquewihr. The vineyard consists of 13.8 hectares of vines, of which 4.4 hectares are classified Grand Cru. Riesling and Gewürztraminer make up about half of the family’s vineyards, and five other varieties also contribute to the Domaine’s output of approximately 6,000 cases per year. The winemakers’ passion for dry and gastronomic wines is revealed in each and every vintage.
80% of the vines are over 35 years old, and 10% are over 80 years old. These mature vines are carefully maintained to extend their lifespan as long as possible. Like some wines, vines improve with age; the resulting grapes build up a natural balance between sweetness and acidity. Stronger, older plants are less sensitive to disease and rot, and they have denser, deeper roots which provide better protection against drought and floods.
The winemakers at Domaine Kientzler have mastered the art of quality vine growing. When a vine dies out, replanting takes place. In order to improve the quality of the grapes, every new vine stock is carefully selected. Each graft is chosen from a different vine stock (massale selection) in order to maintain genetic diversity, which enables a better adaptation to changes in vintage.
Domaine Kientzler is certified organic as of the 2023 vintage.
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100% Auxerrois; more than 40% of the grapes from Grand Cru Kirchberg de Ribeauvillé
Frank and pure aromas with mineral, white floral, unripe lemon, and pippin notes. Elegant and slender mouth, with lively bubbling, and with a vivid and refreshing finish.
James Suckling 94
“Beautiful nose of fresh brioche with hints of yellow apple and Asian pear. A very straight and strict style, but there is joyful ripeness in this, dancing at over your palate and pulling you along in this sparkling wine’s special dance. Very long, chalky finish. 100% Auxerrois, mostly from the Grand Cru Kirchberg. Drink or hold.”~JS
well with cold appetizers made with veggies, terrines, and fresh goat cheese.
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farming/cellar: certified organic, 50 months on the lees!
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