Domaine Barmes Buecher, Grand Cru Hengst Riesling 2023
Hengst is one of the most esteemed Grand Cru vineyards in the Alsace. Its dialect name means stallion. Characterised by its southeast facing, sundrenched slope a terroir boasting marl-limestone soils, it really is a microclimate that creates distinctive qualities in the wines produced. These vineayrds create wines that are powerful and yet so graceful, like a stallion. Riesling gown here can be enjoyed both young and with age, if you can resist their enchanting melody in their youth that is. Striking acidity with intense aromas of blossom, exotic and stone fruit, the limestone minerality provides the backbone for longevity. The Barmes Buecher winery is situated right next to this Cru in Wettolsheim.
How could a dry riesling be more refined, more concentrated or more precise than this giant that is so subtle it’s hard to find adequate words for its perfect beauty? The darkness in the soil and the orange character come together with the freshness of dawn. Unbelievable length and purity! Fermented and mature in well-used small oak cooperage (mostly demi-muids). From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
James Suckling - 100 Points
Hengst is one of the most esteemed Grand Cru vineyards in the Alsace. Its dialect name means stallion. Characterised by its southeast facing, sundrenched slope a terroir boasting marl-limestone soils, it really is a microclimate that creates distinctive qualities in the wines produced. These vineayrds create wines that are powerful and yet so graceful, like a stallion. Riesling gown here can be enjoyed both young and with age, if you can resist their enchanting melody in their youth that is. Striking acidity with intense aromas of blossom, exotic and stone fruit, the limestone minerality provides the backbone for longevity. The Barmes Buecher winery is situated right next to this Cru in Wettolsheim.
How could a dry riesling be more refined, more concentrated or more precise than this giant that is so subtle it’s hard to find adequate words for its perfect beauty? The darkness in the soil and the orange character come together with the freshness of dawn. Unbelievable length and purity! Fermented and mature in well-used small oak cooperage (mostly demi-muids). From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
James Suckling - 100 Points
Hengst is one of the most esteemed Grand Cru vineyards in the Alsace. Its dialect name means stallion. Characterised by its southeast facing, sundrenched slope a terroir boasting marl-limestone soils, it really is a microclimate that creates distinctive qualities in the wines produced. These vineayrds create wines that are powerful and yet so graceful, like a stallion. Riesling gown here can be enjoyed both young and with age, if you can resist their enchanting melody in their youth that is. Striking acidity with intense aromas of blossom, exotic and stone fruit, the limestone minerality provides the backbone for longevity. The Barmes Buecher winery is situated right next to this Cru in Wettolsheim.
How could a dry riesling be more refined, more concentrated or more precise than this giant that is so subtle it’s hard to find adequate words for its perfect beauty? The darkness in the soil and the orange character come together with the freshness of dawn. Unbelievable length and purity! Fermented and mature in well-used small oak cooperage (mostly demi-muids). From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
James Suckling - 100 Points
Alsace is a hive of young talents, having witnessed first-hand Sophie and Maxime Barmès blossom in their roles at the family’s Domaine has been an absolute privilege. Under the guidance of their mum Genevieve, they form an incredible and determined trio. Maxime is leading the work both in the vineyards and the cellars. Sophie is looking after all the commercial side, while Genevieve binds all projects and welcome guests at the winery. The adventure started in 1985 when Genevieve Barmes and Francois Buecher married in Wettolsheim combining their family holdings together. Their goal was to convert to organic viticulture. Their quest towards quality followed in 1998 with a move towards Biodynamic farming. The Domaine was certified in 2001.
Grape variety : 100% Riesling Average age of the vines : 40 years Plots : Hengst Surface area : 0.52ha Terroir : Marly limestone Orientation : East Altitude: 300m Planting Density: 5400 vines/ha Yield: 37hl/ha Production: 2356 bottles + 48 Magnums Vinification: Long fermentation with native yeasts
Ageing: 18 months in old oak barrels on lees Alcohol: 14.5%
