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DOMAINES SCHLUMBERGER
Schlumberger is one of the most historic and important wine families of France, producing a range which includes some of Alsace’s most famous and collectible wines. All of Schlumberger’s wines come from vineyards they own – which should really come as no surprise, when one considers that about half of this 300-acre estate is made up of Grand Cru designated vineyards. The Schlumberger estate is characterized by steep slopes and sandstone rich soils, which comprise the only contiguous piece of property home to four separate Grand Cru designations: (i) Kitterle, (ii) Saering, (iii) Kessler, and (iv) Spiegel. With the origins of winegrowing on these sites dating back to the mid-1200’s, this collection of vineyards represents a veritable living history of Alsace wine.
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2015 KESSLER RIESLING ALSACE GRAND CRU
Kessler is produced from east- and southeast-facing, sandstone soil vineyards that are protected from the north winds and cold air streams brought by the valley of Guebwiller. This rich 2015 Riesling from Domaines Schlumberger has benefitted from gentle pressing and slow, cool fermentation in the cellar to preserve vibrant freshness and aromatic purity. This is followed by aging on the lees for 8 months, which adds a layer of depth and complexity without compromising brightness.
An intense nose marked by citrus, ginger, and white flowers. Upon breathing, the ripe lemon and spicy ginger make way to more exotic aromas. Think: star fruit, white pepper, fennel and other vegetal nuances. The medium plus mouth offers a slight spritz with echoes of the same aromas on the nose. The palate has a mineral streak and a slight smoky touch. Overall, lively, with good acidity and a very good length. This wine will age beautifully for years to come.
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RECIPE IDEAS
Eating Well’s Shrimp Ceviche
Ina Garten’s Tuna Tartare
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EXPERT OPINION
“A complex herbal and spicy nose. Rich yet rather cool and understated, this is a sophisticated dry riesling with some serious tannins at the long mineral finish. With a little more polish, this would have been rated even higher. Drink or hold.” –James Suckling
93 / 100 POINTS
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Producer: Domaines Schlumberger
Wine: Kessler Riesling Grand Cru
Origin: Alsace, France
Vintage: 2015
LCBO #: 61176
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