Domaine Kientzler are one of the great Alsatian producers, with outstanding holdings around the village of Ribeauvillé. The vineyard has been passed from father to son for five generations and now they have 13.8 hectares of vineyards including 4.4 hectares in 'Grand Cru' locations. The vines are a precious heritage: 80% are over 35 years old and 10% over 80 years.

Today, the Kientzlers farm almost 14 hectares of vines in Ribeauvillé, Bergheim, Hunawihr and Riquewihr, including significant parcels in the 'Grand Crus' of Geisberg, Osterberg and Kirchberg. André Kientzler handed over the reins of the business to his sons in 2009; Thierry looks after the winemaking whilst Eric focuses on the commercial side of the business.

Alsace, located in northeastern France along the German border, is a unique wine region renowned for its aromatic white wines and strong sense of terroir. Sheltered by the Vosges Mountains, Alsace enjoys a semi-continental climate with low rainfall and abundant sunshine—ideal for slow grape ripening and concentrated flavours.

The region's complex geology features a mosaic of soil types, including limestone, granite, clay, and volcanic soils. This diversity allows for nuanced expressions of grape varieties and distinct vineyard identities.

Alsace specialises in white wines, particularly from noble varieties such as Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, and Muscat. These grapes produce wines that are typically dry, although late-harvest styles like Vendanges Tardives and Sélection de Grains Nobles offer luscious sweetness with remarkable ageing potential. Flavours range from citrus, green apple, and stone fruit in Riesling, to exotic spice, lychee, and rose in Gewurztraminer, and rich, smoky notes in Pinot Gris.

Wines are mostly varietally labelled and bottled in the region’s distinctive tall, flute-shaped bottles.

Riesling is one of the world’s most esteemed white grape varieties, originating in Germany’s Rhine region during the 15th century. Celebrated for its purity of expression, Riesling thrives in cool climates and is known for its remarkable balance of acidity, aromatic intensity, and ageing potential.

Viticulturally, Riesling is a hardy, late-budding vine well-suited to steep, well-drained slopes. It ripens slowly, allowing it to develop vibrant acidity and a complex flavour profile. The grape is highly expressive of terroir, producing distinctive wines based on soil type, climate, and winemaking style.

Germany remains Riesling’s spiritual home, particularly in regions like the Mosel, Rheingau, and Pfalz. It is also widely grown in Alsace (France), Austria (notably in the Wachau and Kamptal), Australia’s Clare and Eden Valleys, and the Finger Lakes and Washington State in the USA. In each of these regions, Riesling produces wines of great character and diversity.

Riesling styles range from bone-dry to lusciously sweet, including sparkling and late-harvest versions. Classic flavours include green apple, lime, white peach, and jasmine, often with mineral or petrol-like notes as the wine ages. Its naturally high acidity makes it an excellent partner for a wide range of foods, including spicy cuisine and aromatic dishes.