Now run by the 7th generation of the family, Domaines Schlumberger was founded in 1810 by Nicolas Schlumberger, who established vineyards on the renowned slopes above the town of Guebwiller. These vineyard sites have a history of viticulture, having been planted since 207AD. Through successive generations the holding has grown to be one of France’s largest and finest domaines.
Domaines Schlumberger now own 130 hectares of vineyards, 70 of which are Grand Cru. The Kessler vineyard has pink sandstone soil and faces east, south-east, which protects it from north winds and cold air streams brought by the valley of Guebwiller. Yields are 35 hl/ha. Kessler produces structured and elegant wines.
The grapes are hand-picked and whole bunches are pressed. There is static settling of the lees. The wine is fermented in temperature controlled at cool temperatures to nurture the aromatic compounds in the grapes.
The robe is pale yellow with light reflections, of medium intensity. The disk is
bright, limpid and transparent. The wine shows youth.
The nose is marked, pleasant, a bit short. We perceive a dominant of fine earth
scents, yellow fruits, mirabelle plum, slightly smoked. The airing enhances these
scents and reveals orange blossom, fresh mushroom, hop and sweet almond.
Subtle and reserved, the nose shows a beautiful complexity of scents. A
wonderful wine is born.
The onset in the mouth is ample and marrowy. The alcohol support is fullbodied. The wine evolves on a sharp medium, marked by a sparkling note. The
aromatic palette is more intense than the nose, still dominated by sweet
almond, orgeat, yellow fruits. Mirabelle plum, orange blossom, hop, fresh
mushroom and this slight smoky touch. The finish has a good length, 8-9
caudalies, as well as a frank and persistent liveliness. The balance of this wine is
digestible and tasty. It shows a beautiful aromatic complexity. Still a bit austere,
it needs some time to open.
Serve with white meats such as roast turkey, pork, chicken with tarragon or veal escalope.
Serve at 12°C
AOC Alsace Grand Cru
100% Pinot Gris
Natural Cork
14.40%
21.86 g/l
3.55 g/l
Yes
Yes
