The Bartheleme brothers, Maurice and Jacky, are some of the most highly lauded producers in Alsace. They’ve been named “winemakers of the year” by Revue du Vin de France (a big deal for wine lovers in France), been toasted by Wine Advocate, and received a three-star rating in The Classement (another big deal for French wine lovers). 

A bit of history. Maurice Barthelme married Albert Mann's daughter, Marie-Claire, and gradually took over the Domaine. He brought his brother Jacky into the operation in 1990. From Mann, there were Grand Cru Vineyards, Hengst, Steingrubler, Pfersigberg (for Tokay VV) and the wonderful Rosenberg Vineyard.

As soon as you taste this wine you immediately think about possibilities for pairing with food, particularly my favorite fish dishes. There is lots of excitement in this wine. There is a hint of an underlying sweetness, just subtle enough to add context to the energy and exuberance of this biodynamic wine. The color is golden and has beauty in the glass. Within are aromas of wildflowers, apricot, underlying petrol, minerality (granite) and a hint of honey. The palate has a soft and refined character. The core has layers of textured, juicy fruits and acidity with terrific balance through a mouthwatering finish. This is a Riesling that is hard to put down and stop drinking! There is aging potential here that can add additional depth and character. This is truly a great Riesling by Albert Mann.

By Perry Miroballi