Dirler-Cadé : Riesling Grand cru "Kessler" Élément Feu 2018

Characteristics and tasting advice for the Riesling Grand cru "Kessler" Élément Feu 2018 from Dirler-Cadé

Tasting

Appearance
This wine displays a beautiful pale yellow hue with subtle green highlights, reflecting the freshness and youth of the vintage.

Nose
The nose reveals a fine aromatic complexity with notes of citrus and lemon zest, accompanied by hints of white flowers and spicy ginger. With aeration, smoky and mineral nuances gradually emerge.

Palate
On the palate, this riesling shows remarkable density supported by a crystalline mineral structure. Flavors of citrus, white flowers, and spices extend elegantly, carried by a lively freshness. The finish, with great length, stands out for its freshness and mineral persistence.

Food and wine pairings
This dry riesling pairs beautifully with delicate white fish such as turbot or sea bream. It also complements seafood, particularly shellfish and scallops. Fresh goat cheeses or washed-rind cheeses such as munster also make excellent pairings.

Serving and cellaring
The Riesling Grand cru "Kessler" Élément Feu 2018 is best enjoyed at a temperature between 50 and 54°F.

A sun-filled and mineral Alsace riesling from Grand Cru Kessler

The estate
Founded in 1871 by Jean Dirler in Bergholtz, the Domaine Dirler-Cadé has upheld Alsatian winemaking excellence for five generations. In 2000, the union of Jean Dirler and Ludivine Cadé gave rise to the current estate, which now spans 18 hectares, 40% of which are classified as Grands Crus. A pioneer of biodynamic viticulture since 1998, the estate is certified Biodyvin and Organic Agriculture. Today, Jean and Ludivine Dirler manage this family property, awarded three stars by the RVF Guide 2025-2026, embodying the house’s historic motto: “Natural wines, Fine wines.”

The vineyard
The Grand Cru Kessler covers 29 hectares in Alsace, at an altitude ranging from 300 to 390 meters. This exceptional terroir, mentioned as early as 1394, takes its name from “coppersmith” and benefits from a particularly favorable microclimate. Its basin-like configuration protects the vines from cold winds, creating a sun-filled environment conducive to optimal grape ripening. The sandstone soil gives the wines a distinctive crystalline minerality. The estate farms its plots biodynamically, favoring horse plowing on steep slopes and promoting biodiversity through the installation of nesting boxes and the planting of hedges.

The vintage
The 2018 vintage is an excellent year in Alsace, characterized by favorable climatic conditions that allowed for exceptional grape ripeness.

Winemaking and aging
The grapes for the Riesling Grand cru "Kessler" Élément Feu 2018 are hand-harvested at optimal ripeness. The winemaking follows biodynamic principles, favoring a low-intervention approach to preserve the authentic expression of the Kessler sandstone terroir.

Grape variety
100% riesling.