Riesling Altenbourg

Sparr, Amélie & Charles
France
Alsace
2019

Altenbourg has always been very special for the Sparr family. While not grand cru, Altenbourg is considered one of the best lieu-dits in Alsace. Charles' grandfather was the first to plant riesling here 60 years ago, a limestone soil, in the village of Kientzheim. Charles farms .6 hectare here today. Charles and Amelie have two Stockinger barrels in the cellar, one named after each of their children and in 2019, the Altenbourg was aged in one new Stockinger barrel. It was aged for 24 months in the barrel without any sulfur until bottling.

93 points
"I love the restrained power and delicate touch of this typically generous Alsace dry riesling. Plenty of chamomile and a touch of acacia honey give it a lot of appeal, and the way it opens up in the glass suggests this will age well. Finely chiseled palate, the underlying tannins neatly supporting the long, rather mellow finish. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Drink or hold."
James Suckling,
James Suckling
February 7, 2022
92 points
"The 2019 Riesling is from the upper part of the Altenbourg /ieu-dit, planted in the late 1950s and early 1960s, with cuttings sourced in the Mosel. Yinified in Stockinger foudre, this has started evolving and shows on immense creaminess and lifted notes of chamomile and hoyflowers. The palate is: concentrated with on almost viscous mouthfeel. There is a lovely hint of fresh, cold butter that accompanies the fine, bright acidity that speaks of the coolness of the limestone. Dried lemon peel and juiciness inform the extended and bane-dry finish. Beautifully serene and pure. (Bo"
Anne Krebiehl,
Vinous Media
February 2023

SKU/Code: 
DB3982-19
Product Line: 
National Portfolio
Wine
White
Varietal: 
Riesling
Farming Type: 
Biodynamic