2023 Melanie Pfister - Breit Cremant d'Alsace Extra Brut (750ml)

Domaine Pfister was founded in 1780 in the village of Dahlenheim, in the northern tip of Alsace just west of Strasbourg, an area with wine production dating back to the year 884, when records show the village supplying wine to the Abbey of Saint Michel de Honan. Mélanie Pfister has led the family estate since 2008, becoming the first woman to lead this eight-generation family domaine. Trained in agronomy and oenology, she converted the property to organic farming in 2015 and biodynamic practices in 2021, and co-founded the Divines d'Alsace association championing the region's ecological and stylistic revival.

The name "Breit" comes from Hangenbriete, the vineyard from which the wine is sourced. The blend is roughly 50% Chardonnay and 50% Pinot Blanc and Auxerrois, farmed organically across 10 hectares. The grapes are hand-harvested as whole bunches, gently pressed, and fermented through both alcoholic and malolactic fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel to preserve vibrant fruit character. The wine then rests on its lees for a minimum of twenty-four months, considerably longer than the roughly nine months typical of most French crémant, resulting in unusual depth and elegance. This particular cuvée carries an extra-low dosage of just 3 grams per liter, delivering layered brioche depth without sacrificing freshness.

The finished wine tastes like orchard fruit pulled from the icebox, dusted with flint, fine and very dry but never severe. Expect notes of green apple skin, apricot, white flowers, and buttery brioche, with a creamy initial mouthfeel giving way to sharp apple and lemon zest on the finish.

Pair with fine oysters, buttery gougères, or a citrus-topped tarte au citron.