Domaine Fernand Engel Crement D'Alsace Brut Chardonnay

“Miracle of Wine that makes Man what he should never have stopped being, a friend of man” - René Engel, 20th century

The land is generous, but it gives nothing of itself without effort. Since 2001, the family's land has been managed exclusively based on organic farming methods. Since 2012, they have been certified organic & now Fernand Engel is the largest organic estate in Alsace. The company is known for its consistent commitment to respect nature.

In organic agriculture, the winegrower seeks to restore & respect the natural balances of the environment to strengthen the plant's intrinsic defences. The 220 plots of land in the estate are therefore the subject of personalised attention to ensure that the necessary care is geared to each block. The vine is a sensitive & demanding plant, it requires constant attention. Bernard knows this well & he goes on a daily tour through the whole estate. It is not just his profession, it is a lifelong commitment.

The diversity of the soils & the variability of the climate give Alsatian wines an eminently complex dimension, making each vintage a new challenge. Thanks to their experience & expertise, they have understood that it is by respecting the raw material, by listening to it, that they will guide the genesis of the wine as naturally & as faithfully as possible. Manipulation is limited & each wine is a reflection of its terroir.

These vintages that we love so much are born here, & here too their personality is slowly revealed. The style of Engel wines is the reflection of these men, it is a clever mix of passion, work & experience. The production is an art, but patience, rigour & hard work make it possible to understand the element of chance.

Chardonnay,

Sustainable and Organic vineyard practices.

The grapes are taken from 4 plots in Rorschwihr on dark chalky soils on heavy loess rock. Deep sandy-clayey soils. 3 plots in Orschwiller on dark washed-calcareous soils with 15-20% granitic stones. Silt sandy-clayey subsoil.

Intense and fresh nose. Fine bubbles with elegant citrus fruits notes of lemon & grapefruit. Nuances of bread yeasts & smoky notes. A fresh attack with structured acidity. Refreshing & fruity, with a creamy touch. Nuances of brioche & hot bread. Beautiful maturity.

Perfect as an aperitif to celebrate an occasion or with decadent desserts. The cooked fruits flavours of the wine predispose it to accompany a tart tatin, pound cake, hot pears or canapés to start an evening with a bang!