Domaine Christian Barthel - Riesling Schist 2024
The Domaine Christian Barthel is located in Albé, in the Val de Villé in Alsace, a mid-mountain area nestled between the foothills of the Vosges. This family vineyard, passed down through several generations, now covers about fourteen hectares spread over the steep slopes surrounding the village. The vines are planted between 350 and 500 meters in altitude, a rare situation in the Alsace vineyard that favors slow ripening of the grapes and a natural preservation of aromatic freshness. The Albé terroir is distinguished by the dominant presence of gray and blue schists mixed with clayey silts, ancient soils that give the wines a marked mineral signature. In this mountain vineyard, the significant temperature variations between day and night help develop the aromatic intensity of the grapes. The estate cultivates its plots according to organic farming principles, a commitment made for several years to preserve the natural balance of the vineyard. The Riesling Schist 2024 cuvée perfectly illustrates the identity of this particular terroir by highlighting the tension and purity of the grape variety.
The Riesling Schist 2024 is made exclusively from Riesling coming from plots located on the schist soils of the Val de Villé. These soils, mainly composed of bluish gray schists and clayey silts, favor the mineral expression and aromatic precision typical of this grape variety in Alsace. The grapes are harvested entirely by hand to preserve the integrity of the bunches and allow careful selection in the vineyard. After gentle pressing, fermentation is carefully conducted to respect the natural expression of the fruit and terroir. The aging is generally done in stainless steel tanks, a method that preserves the freshness and aromatic clarity of the Riesling without wood influence. This winemaking approach favors the purity of the grape variety and the readability of the schist terroir. The wine thus develops a dry and precise profile that faithfully reflects the identity of the Albé mountain vineyard.
On tasting, Riesling Schist 2024 reveals a fine nose dominated by aromas of lemon, white peach, and delicate flowers, complemented by nuances of fresh herbs and stone fruits. The palate is distinguished by a straight and energetic texture, supported by a lively acidity that underlines the fresh origin of the mountain vineyard. The flavors evoke ripe citrus fruits, green apple, and sometimes a slight floral note that adds finesse to the whole. The mineral framework from the schist soils brings tension and length, giving the wine a profile that is both precise and elegant. The finish, clean and salivating, extends the aromas with a persistent freshness sensation. This Riesling pairs particularly well with freshwater fish, seafood, traditional sauerkraut, or fresh cheeses.
Grape variety: 100% Riesling
