Embark on a journey to Alsace with the 2016 Schieferkopf Lieu-dit Buehl, an emblematic wine that encapsulates the essence of its terroir. Produced by the visionary Michel Chapoutier, this wine reflects a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, showcasing the distinct characteristics of the Buehl vineyard's slate soils.
Key Features:
- 🍇 Vintage: 2016
- 🏞️ Origin: Lieu-dit Buehl, Alsace, France
- 🍇 Grape Variety: Predominantly Riesling, with a commitment to expressing the varietal's purity and the terroir's minerality.
- 🍷 Flavor Profile: The wine presents a complex array of aromatics, from floral notes of white blossoms to citrus zest and ripe stone fruits. On the palate, it is marked by a crisp acidity, a textured minerality, and a depth of flavor that speaks to its slate terroir. The finish is long and nuanced, leaving a memorable impression of elegance and balance.
- 🌿 Terroir Influence: The slate soils of the Buehl vineyard contribute significantly to the wine's mineral complexity and its distinctive flavor profile, enhancing the Riesling's natural vibrancy and aromatic intensity.
- 🍇 Winemaking Process: Michel Chapoutier's philosophy of "fac et spera" – do and hope – guides the vinification process, emphasizing organic practices, hand-harvesting, and minimal intervention to allow the terroir to express itself fully. The wine is aged on lees to develop additional complexity and texture.
- 🍽️ Food Pairing: This wine's versatility makes it an excellent match for a variety of dishes, including seafood, poultry, and vegetarian cuisine. Its acidity and minerality also pair beautifully with Alsace's traditional dishes, such as choucroute garnie, enhancing the flavors with its crispness.
- 🍷 Serving Recommendations: To best appreciate the wine's intricate flavors and aromatics, serve chilled at 8-10°C (46-50°F). Allowing the wine to breathe briefly before serving can further unveil its complexity.