2022 ChevernyDomaine du Salvard
France | Loire
$22
Producers
Ostertag’s “Mountain of the Monks” parcel has absolutely everything going for it: nine centuries of uninterrupted grape cultivation, an insane swirl of lava and sandstone in the ground, perfect southern exposition, steep, horse-plowed slopes, old vines, and a pristine location in an undeveloped hidden valley, far from the rattle and hum of modern society. What more could a grand cru want? The wine reflects that swirl in the soil, with the sandstone’s discreet sensuality and charm rolling in the glass along with the volcanic lava’s strength and fire. If you can’t wait to drink it now, consider decanting it for a few hours to settle that fire. If you have the patience, give it five years to see where it will go.
—Chris Santini
Wine Type: | white |
Vintage: | 2019 |
Bottle Size: | 750mL |
Blend: | Riesling |
Appellation: | Alsace Grand Cru |
Country: | France |
Region: | Alsace |
Producer: | Domaine Ostertag |
Winemaker: | André Ostertag |
Vineyard: | 1.7 ha; From the Alsatian “muench” meaning monk, this vineyard is named for the Cistercian monks who originally planted vines here in the 11th-12th centuries. In a south-facing amphitheater in Nothalten at the foot of the Vosges mountains, the Muenchberg site combines volcanic sediment and the pink sandstone of the Vosges with a touch of limestone. |
Soil: | Volcanic Sediment, Pink Sandstone |
Farming: | Biodynamic (certified) |
Alcohol: | 14% |
Domaine Ostertag France | Alsace | Alsace
Domaine Ostertag France | Alsace | Alsace
Domaine Ostertag France | Alsace | Alsace
Domaine Ostertag France | Alsace | Alsace
Domaine Ostertag France | Alsace | Alsace
Tragically, Alsace might be the most misunderstood wine region of France. In spite of its long history of viticulture and tremendous diversity of pedigreed terroirs, a past fraught with marketing mishaps has left consumers baffled as to what exactly to expect inside one of these mysterious tall, thin bottles.
The good news, on the other hand, is that a new wave of quality-oriented growers is working hard to put Alsace in its rightful place as one of the world’s most fascinating sources of fine white wine. By embracing tradition, respecting terroir, and making a concerted effort to better communicate the countless virtues their wines have to offer, they have succeeded in putting Alsace back on the map.
Crafted from a number of grape varieties and beautifully interpreting the region’s mosaic of soil types, our Alsace imports are by and large dry whites offering exceptional versatility at table. While each of these selections is ready to be uncorked tonight, the finest among them are also capable of maturing for many, many years in a cool cellar. Expect kaleidoscopic aromatics, lively acidities, and loads of terroir transparency in these skillfully crafted masterpieces. Enjoy a foray into the thrilling world of the world’s most underrated wine region, and certainly do not hesitate to contact our sales staff with any questions as you take off on this mouth-watering adventure.
Albert Boxler France | Alsace | Alsace Grand Cru
Meyer-Fonné France | Alsace | Alsace
Meyer-Fonné France | Alsace | Alsace
Meyer-Fonné France | Alsace | Alsace
Albert Boxler France | Alsace | Crémant d’Alsace
Albert Boxler France | Alsace | Alsace Grand Cru
Kuentz-Bas France | Alsace | Alsace Grand Cru
Albert Boxler France | Alsace | Alsace
Meyer-Fonné France | Alsace | Alsace Grand Cru
Domaine Ostertag France | Alsace | Alsace
Trust the great winemakers, trust the great vineyards. Your wine merchant might even be trustworthy. In the long run, that vintage strip may be the least important guide to quality on your bottle of wine.—Kermit Lynch
Drinking distilled spirits, beer, coolers, wine and other alcoholic beverages may increase cancer risk, and, during pregnancy, can cause birth defects. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/alcohol
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