Pierre Sparr

Alsace, France

Riesling, Schoenenbourg, AOC Alsace Grand Cru — 2019

download facts sheet Download tasting notes where to buy
  • Introduction

    • This wine is 100 percent estate-grown. The Schoenenbourg Grand Cru vineyard stretches across a steep south- and southeast-facing hillside between the villages of Riquewihr and Zellenberg, at an altitude of 265 to 380 meters. As part of the Ribeauville Fault Bundle in the sub-Vosgian Hills, the subsoil consists of water-retaining marl, dolomite and gypsum, overlaid with fine layers of Vosges sandstone, siliceous gravel and Muschelkalk (consisting of a sequence of limestone and dolostone beds with fossil shells, formed 240 million years ago in the Middle Triassic.) Schoenenbourg vineyard has been renowned since the 16th century.

  • Vineyard Profile

    • Appellation: AOC Alsace Grand Cru
    • Location: Vosges hillside, south/southeast exposure
    • Size: 1.5 hectares (3.7 acres)
    • Vine Age: 36 years
    • Soil: Water-retaining Keuper, marl, dolomite and gypsum, overlaid with fine layers of Vosges sandstone, siliceous gravel and Muschelkalk (fossil shells)
  • Vintage Report

    • Harvest Date(s): Third week of October, set by decree for each AOC
    • Yields: 50 hectoliters per hectare (3.7 tons per acre)
  • Vinification

    • Traditional, no skin contact, temperature-controlled, no malolactic.

    • Aging: Stainless-steel tanks, wine on fine lees for 8 to 10 months
  • Technical Information

    • Varietal Composition: 100% Riesling
    • Alcohol: 13.5%
    • TA: 5.46 g/L
    • RS: 11.4 g/L
  • Tasting Notes

    • Nice golden color. Very expressive and complex nose. Large range of fruity and floral notes, elegant and full of promise. Citrus fruits and white flowers and a hint of minerality are revealing the limestone soil of this wonderful terroir.

      On the palate, the fresh structure of the Riesling is balanced by its body, dense and straight. A hint of sweetness reinforces this full-bodied and full-flavored side typical for a Grand Cru.

      Its future and potential are drawn well. It is a gastronomic wine which can be drunk young and will open up coming years.

    • Serving Suggestions: Shellfish, seared scallops, roast poultry or with a lemon meringue pie.

Images

Reviews

  • Riesling, Schoenenbourg, AOC Alsace Grand Cru — 2019 – Wine Enthusiast – 94 Points

    “The nose is intense with grapefruit and guava, a surprising and delightful combination. On the palate, too, this wine's fruit characteristics are forward and lively. Grapefruit gummy candy dances across the tongue. On the finish, a savory hint of minerality and dry thyme comes into the picture.”

More