Founded in 1895, the Cave de Ribeauvillé is the oldest cooperative in France. The vineyards cover 265 hectares surrounding Ribeauvillé village. The human element is the foundation of the cooperative with a total of 110 members. AOC Crémant d’Alsace is the jewel in the crown of the sparkling wines produced in Alsace.

The Clos du Zahnacker is a terroir blessed by the gods! It has been the exclusive property of “La Cave de Ribeauvillé” since 1965. This Clos was successively owned by warriors and religious men. It bears the name of one of its first known owner, a knight and monk by the name of Martin Zahn (Zahn Acker = the field of Zahn). With its original 124 acres, the Clos, overlooked by the Haut-Koenigsbourg castle is located in the heart of the Grand Cru Osterberg vineyard and benefits from an ideal south easterly position. The three varietals plantation rule is still observed: Riesling, Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer are grown in equal quantities and are simultaneously fermented, producing an exceptional cuvée. Old texts trace its origin to the 8th century. Local history says that Louis the XIV known as “Roi Soleil” enjoyed the wine which came from the Clos du Zahnacker and would have savoured it in an “hanap” (cup) to be seen still in the Ribeauvillé Civil center.

This cuvée is a blend of Riesling, Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer which, according to tradition, are pressed together and co-fermented. After a gentle pressing of the whole grape and a racking of the must, the juice was placed in stainless steel vats in our “pouponnière” (nursery). Fermentation ended at Christmas and the wine remained on its lees until end of March. The bottling took place end of June.

Discover its best taste with Sashimi, fish tacos as well as creamy sauces over scallops or poultry.