2019 Andre Kientzler Osterberg Riesling Grand Cru, Alsace

So tight and firm with major, chalky minerality, this is a very striking dry riesling that has the depth of expression we expect from the Grand Cru category wines. So much Amalfi lemon and lemon curd, but also dill and parsley aromas. Serious depth and structure at the bold and crisp finish. Drink or hold.

94 points James Suckling Jun 2022

The Kientzler family have called Ribeauvillé home since 1699 and are regarded among the finest custodians of Alsace's great vineyard sites. André Kientzler built the estate's reputation on wines of precision, elegance and longevity, with each bottling designed to reflect the distinct personality of its origin rather than the hand of the winemaker.

Osterberg is one of Ribeauvillé's most prized Grand Cru vineyards, perched on steep slopes overlooking the village below. The combination of limestone, marl and sandstone soils gives Riesling from this site both generosity and tension, producing wines that are powerful in youth yet capable of remarkable development over decades in the cellar. It is a vineyard that consistently delivers some of the most complete and ageworthy wines in the Kientzler portfolio.

The colour is pale straw with shimmering golden highlights. Aromas of lime blossom, white peach and preserved lemon rise from the glass, joined by notes of green apple, white flowers and crushed rock. The palate is beautifully layered, combining ripe citrus and stone fruit flavours with a fine chalky texture and impressive mineral drive. There is an effortless balance between richness and freshness, with a saline edge and lingering finish that speak clearly of the vineyard's Grand Cru pedigree.

Superb with grilled lobster, scallops with beurre blanc, roast chicken with tarragon, or a creamy mushroom and leek tart. While already showing wonderful harmony, the structure and acidity suggest this will continue to reward cellaring through to 2040 and beyond.