Achillée Crémant d'Alsace 2020
This wine is composed of 40% Riesling, with the balance split between Pinot Blanc/Auxerrois, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Gris. The vines grow on gravelly soils in Scherwiller - poor, light soils from the Villé Valley’s alluvial cone with minimal clay - and on north-facing slopes of the Frankstein in Dambach-la-Ville. Rigorous trellising is applied in the vineyard.
In the cellar, the must is lightly settled (low-intervention débourbage) before fermentation, followed by nine months on fermentation lees in stainless-steel tanks. A loose diatomaceous earth filtration is used, and no additives are introduced at any point. Fermentation takes roughly one month, and after tank ageing, the wine rests on the lees in bottle for two years. Disgorgement is carried out in small batches, with zero dosage.
Ratings
The nose is intense and inviting, layered with mirabelle plum, toasted hazelnut, lemon, and orange peel, intertwined with hints of brioche and cream. On the palate, fine, persistent bubbles carry a rich, expansive texture. There's depth and intensity, balanced by a touch of spice - subtle cinnamon weaving through the vibrant fruit and creamy undertones.