2022 Domaine Loew Riesling Muschelkalck

WINEMAKER: Etienne Loew
REGION: Alsace, FR
VARIETY: Riesling
VITICULTURE: Certified Organic/Biodynamic

Muschelkalck Riesling comes from 3 vineyard parcels planted between 1967 and 2007, on a slope facing west. Much of the soils here are filled with fossil shells. Etienne Loew lets the grapes ferment for almost seven months. Very unusual among modern winemakers, but Etienne follows nature and allows the winter cold to virtually stop fermentation. Fermented through the winter and aged on lees until spring.

A concentrated Riesling, that is full of flint, the flint! Mon dieu! There are also swathes of lemon zest, a less fruitful core and one more surrounded by gentle florals - impeccable tension. Alsace Level 10. A great value introduction to the depth of character and quality of Loew wines.

In the north of Alsace, where natural amphitheatre-like slopes bask in sun-drenched, dry conditions, Domaine Loew is a beacon of artisanal winemaking. What began humbly with Etienne Loew cultivating just 0.72 hectares of vineyards, small, but incredibly challenging being some of the steepest slopes in the area, has blossomed into an impressive 11.5-hectare estate. Each parcel, characterised by its unique soil composition, elevation and of course, microbiological ecosystem, plays a crucial role in shaping the distinct characteristics of the Domaine’s wines.