2022 Andre Kientzler Riesling Grand Cru de Ribeauvillé, Alsace

What a beauty this concentrated but very elegant dry riesling is, even at this very early stage in its long life. The delicate peach and lemon curd aromas are wrapped around the chalky structure and fine tannins. Very long, structured finish with wonderful candied lemon character. Drinkable now, but best from 2025.

95 points James Suckling

Ribeauvillé is home to some of Alsace's most celebrated vineyards, and few families have a deeper connection to these historic slopes than the Kientzlers. For generations, Domaine André Kientzler has been crafting wines that capture the distinctive character of the region's finest sites, earning a reputation for Rieslings of precision, structure and remarkable ageing potential. Their Grand Cru selections consistently rank among the estate's most impressive releases.

Drawn from Grand Cru vineyards surrounding Ribeauvillé, this Riesling reflects the complex mosaic of limestone, sandstone and marl soils that make the area so highly regarded. The 2022 vintage delivered exceptional fruit quality, balancing concentration with freshness and mineral definition. Careful vineyard management and traditional winemaking allow the terroir to take centre stage, producing a wine of purity and site expression.

Pale gold with green highlights, the bouquet is intensely aromatic, revealing aromas of lime blossom, lemon zest and white peach layered with notes of jasmine, wet stone and subtle spice. As the wine develops in the glass, hints of grapefruit, citrus oil and pear emerge, adding further complexity. The palate is beautifully structured, combining vibrant citrus and stone fruit flavours with bright acidity and a pronounced mineral backbone. There is impressive concentration and energy throughout, leading to a long, dry finish filled with citrus, floral and stony nuances.

This is a superb match for grilled lobster, scallops, roast pork, smoked trout, sushi or a mature Comté. While already captivating, the wine possesses the balance and structure to evolve gracefully for well over a decade, developing additional complexity with time in the cellar.