2022 Andre Kientzler Geisberg Grand Cru Riesling, Alsace

Here's an incredibly structured and profoundly minerally dry riesling even in the Alsace context (the region has a history of making this sort of wine). So straight and so much drive. More crushed rock character than anything else, though underlying this is a vein of juciness that prevents this from being only austere. Brilliant vinification. A stunning expression of this very steep terraced site with a combination of limestone and sandstone soil. Drinkable now, but best from 2026.

97 points James Suckling

Towering above the village of Ribeauvillé, the Geisberg Grand Cru vineyard is one of Alsace's great homes for Riesling. Its steep slopes, complex mix of limestone, sandstone and marl, and exceptional exposure create wines of remarkable intensity and longevity. Few families know these prized vineyards better than the Kientzlers, who have been crafting some of Alsace's most age worthy wines for generations.

Founded in the nineteenth century, Domaine André Kientzler has built a reputation for producing Rieslings that balance power with precision. The estate's holdings in Geisberg are among its crown jewels, consistently yielding wines of structure, mineral detail and extraordinary ageing potential. The outstanding 2022 vintage delivered fruit with exceptional concentration while retaining the freshness and tension that define great Alsace Riesling.

Pale gold with brilliant green highlights, the bouquet is intensely aromatic, revealing lime blossom, lemon zest and white peach alongside notes of jasmine, crushed stone and wet slate. As the wine opens, hints of citrus oil, pear and delicate spice emerge, adding further complexity. The palate is powerful yet beautifully focused, delivering layers of lime, grapefruit and stone fruit supported by vibrant acidity and a pronounced mineral backbone. The texture is both concentrated and refined, leading to a long, precise finish filled with citrus and stony minerality.

This is a magnificent partner for lobster, grilled scallops, roast pork, smoked trout, sushi or an aged Comté. While already impressive in its youth, the structure and pedigree of this Grand Cru Riesling will reward patient cellaring for many years to come.