Master class
Alsace Riesling: Hierarchy and Terroirs of the Left Bank of the Rhine

This masterclass is an exceptional wine experience that will take participants to northeastern France – where geography and history meet to create the unique character of Alsace. During the session, Jacky Barthelmé will present one of the sunniest and driest regions in France, protected by the Vosges Mountains. Participants will learn how this unique microclimate allows the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly, developing the legendary freshness and minerality that make these wines recognizable worldwide. The masterclass will also answer the question of why terroir is so important by exploring the difference between AOC Alsace and AOC Alsace Grand Cru. At the heart of the tasting will be the great Riesling, which, like a true mirror, reflects the specificity of each hillside, turning every sip into a unique discovery.

Here are the wines that will be tasted:
AOC Alsace – Riesling 2023
AOC Alsace – Riesling Cuvee Albert 2023
AOC Alsace Grand Cru Schlossberg – Riesling 2022
AOC Alsace Grand Cru Wineck-Schlossberg – Riesling 2022
AOC Alsace Grand Cru Furstentum – Riesling 2022
AOC Alsace Grand Cru Furstentum – Riesling 2019
AOC Alsace “Vendanges Tardives” Rosenberg – Riesling 2022 (Sweet Wine)

25 April (Saturday), from 2:00 PM to 3:15 PM

The masterclass will be conducted in English without translation.

NOTE! The master class ticket does NOT provide access to the exhibition! To participate in any of the master classes, you must have an entrance ticket to Discover.Vino on the same day!

Reserve your place in this unique experience.

Jacky Barthelmé is a key figure in contemporary French winemaking. His story begins in a family with deep-rooted viticultural traditions dating back to the 17th century. In 1989, he joined the management of the Albert Mann winery, combining efforts with his brother Maurice to elevate the brand to an international level.

A fundamental pillar of Jacky’s work is the transition to sustainable agriculture. Under his leadership, together with his brother, the estate fully converted to organic farming in 1997 and to biodynamic practices in 2000. This change was driven by their belief that this is the only way to truly express the terroir of Alsace.

Jacky is a recognized master of Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Gewürztraminer. His wines are distinguished by specific stylistic characteristics – known for their precision, purity, and minerality. He pays special attention to the estate’s Grand Cru parcels, such as the legendary Schlossberg and Furstentum.

Jacky Barthelmé’s philosophy is simple yet firm: “Wine is made in the vineyard, not in the cellar.” He is known for deliberately limiting yields in order to achieve maximum concentration of flavors in every bottle. This uncompromising approach has earned him the highest professional recognition. In 2012, the prestigious French publication La Revue du Vin de France named Jacky and Maurice Barthelmé “Winemakers of the Year.” This award is a major acknowledgment of their significant contribution to the quality and prestige of Alsace wines.