Julien Schaal Alsace Rosacker Grand Cru “Calcaire” 2023

From the winemaker:

GEOLOGY: Created during the German Triassic geological period, Rosacker sits on a Muschelkalk and Lettenkhole parent rock. Limestone soils are rich in minerals and promote good water retention. They give rise to complex Riesling wines with vibrant acidity, flavors of lime and floral notes, with a large acidity.

AGE OF SOIL: The latter is shelly sedimentary limestone dating back 235 to 245 million years ago, more or less dolmotised.

VINEYARD: Situated within the Hunawihr municipality, the Grand Cru Rosacker spans a rectangular expanse along the north side of the village, ascending towards the entrance of the enclosed valley at the village’s summit. Positioned at elevations ranging from 260 to 330 meters, the east/south-east-facing hillside provides a commanding view of the Alsace plain.​

CELLAR: The grapes undergo manual harvesting and are then pressed as whole bunch. After a prolonged and gentle pressing, the juice is moved to tanks for a delicate static settling process. The gradual, cool, natural fermentation extends for up to three months, followed by several months of aging. These meticulous steps contribute to capturing and preserving the authentic “sense of place”.

We consistently aim to prevent malolactic fermentation to safeguard the aromas and inherent freshness naturally present in the wine.

APPEARANCE: The wine typically exhibits a pale to medium lemon color, indicating its youthfulness and vibrancy.

NOSE: Upon nosing, the wine releases an aromatic symphony. Initial notes may include intense citrus fruits such as lime, lemon, and grapefruit. There’s often a floral bouquet with hints of white flowers, followed by a subtle mineral undertone that reflects the unique terroir of Rosacker.

PALATE: The first sip unveils a bright and lively acidity, a hallmark of Riesling. The taste is dominated by a medley of citrus flavors, with the zesty acidity contributing to a refreshing and crisp profile. There’s a remarkable balance between the fruitiness and the pronounced mineral character, creating a harmonious and well-structured palate. The finish is long and lingering, leaving a trail of citrus zest and a distinct minerality.

FOOD & WINE:

Try it with fresh oysters, crab, or scallops. The wine’s acidity cuts through the richness of the shellfish, while the citrus notes harmonize with the delicate flavors. The citrus notes in the Riesling can harmonize beautifully with dishes that feature citrus-based sauces, such as lemon or orange-infused seafood.