Domaine Jean-Pierre Rietsch, Cremant d'Alsace 2016/2017

Producers Name: Domaine Jean-Pierre Rietsch

Region: Alsace, France

Vintage: 2016/2017

Grapes: Auxerrois, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris

Style: Sparkling

Body: medium

ABV: 12.5%

Vinification: Champagne method. This crémant is a blend of juices from the 2016 and 2017 harvests, to which juices from 2018 have been added. Natural fermentation from indigenous yeasts. Aged in the tank for 1 year, second fermentation in Light sulphiting at bottling.

Farming: Organic

Vegan? : Yes

Initially a mixed farm with crops including tobacco, the land has been in the family for seven generations. Jean-Pierre’s parents started cultivating vines in the 1970s, and passed it to Jean-Pierre in 1987. Organic farming with no use of chemicals. In the cellar, very little sulphur is used, and only when necessary. There is a precision and clarity to all the wines. Having become bored with making late-harvest wines with aromatic varieties; Jean-Pierre is one of few in his area to experiment with skin-contact wines and has gained a reputation for these. 

This Cremant is definitely a standout and can outshine most Cremant from better known regions or even some Champagnes!

tasting notes: Brioche, granny smith apple and fresh citrus.

Mineral core and delicate saline finish