Nothing here yet
Check out our favorites.
Check out our favorites.
Husband and wife team Francois and Genevieve Barmes created Domaine Barmes-Buecher in 1985 from family land owned since the 17th century. Today, after the death of Francois, Genevieve carries on their life's work, managing 30 acres in Alsace, around the towns of Wettolsheim, Turckheim, and Wintzenheim. Over a decade ago, Francois Barmes turned to biodynamic farming, away from the use of weed killers or fertilizers, replacing them with homeopathic treatments. There is no chaptalization (addition of sugar to increase alcohol levels), no fining, no enzyme treatment, and no artificial yeast addition. One other important step in the vineyards set them apart from their Alsatian neighbors: in the second half of August, Francois would stay home, tending the vines and tying the tops of the adjacent vines to each other, so as to gain better sun exposure to the bunches without trimming. In the wake of his passing, Francois' children, Maxime and Sophie have taken on much of the responsibility in the vineyard and continue to further the biodynamic practice they began with their father. Applied to the three Grand Cru holdings, Hengst, Steingrubler and Pfsigberg, Domaine Barmes-Buecher produces supremely concentrated Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, and Gewurztraminer, to name just a few cuvees.
Like 2010 in much of France, Alsace saw an excellent harvest that produced wines with great concentration and focus, balanced by beautiful acidity and freshness.
The previous winter was cold and long, extending into early March. Bud break was pushed back, and a hard freeze caused damage to some vines. April remained cool but temperatures rose in May allowing the vines to progress. Flowering was late nonetheless, and a swift temperature drop during this crucial period caused further crop loss from millerandage and coulure.
The erratic weather continued into June, which saw a major hot, dry spell during its last week. July was hot, with periods of storms and rain. August was back to wet and cold, and fighting off disease became critical due to the spread of oidium and mildew. At this point in the season the grapes were behind in the ripening cycle. This turned out to be a boon, however, as the grapes felt less impact from potentially damaging rainstorms.
Finally, at the end of August the weather improved, and remained consistent through October. Temperatures slowly tapered off and drying, cool north winds allowed a long hang-time for the grapes, helping to keep sugar and acid in balance.
The resulting wines are focused and intense, with good ripe fruit and brilliant acidity and should have the structure and depth to age well. A classic vintage with many superb wines, but unfortunately a small crop and one that may have some variation given the uneven and crazy weather during the season.
We noticed that the credit card number you entered matches one of your saved credit cards. We’ve updated your saved card with the new information.