Portraits of winemakers

THE ALBERT KLEE HOUSE: TERROIR AND PLEASURE

330 Views Posted on: 2024-06-03
 

Maison Albert Klee

Albert Klee is located in Katzenthal, a small valley shielded from prevailing winds. This idyllic location features a variety of terroirs ideal for all seven Alsatian grape varieties. As an independent winemaker since 1624, the estate has garnered accolades from top critics. At Maison Klee, Jean-François Klee is deeply involved in the creation of his cuvées. Notably, old oak casks are cleaned with a brush and clear water after the winemaker enters through a small door on the façade. This is his trick to stay motivated and keep in shape while working in the vineyard!

A Passionate Winemaker Trained by the Best

Jean-François Klee is a winemaker with a background in agronomy and oenology. Passionate about viticulture and winemaking, he began his training in Bordeaux, working with the renowned Delon estates (Léoville Las Cases 2nd Grand Cru, Potensac cru bourgeois, and Nénin in Pomerol). Equipped with this experience, he returned to the family estate and the distinct terroir of Alsace in 2012. There, he strives to perpetuate the craftsmanship of his parents, Albert and Odile. His mission is to share knowledge about the terroirs to enhance them perfectly and to produce balanced, gastronomic wines suited for meals.

Two Grand Crus and a Complete Selection of Alsatian Wines

Maison Albert Klee produces wines from all Alsatian grape varieties: Edelzwicker, Pinot Blanc, Muscat, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Gewurztraminer—all the classics are represented. The estate boasts two grand crus among the most renowned in the AOC Alsace :

  • Wineck Schlossberg: sandy gravel on granite rock, dedicated to Riesling
  • Kaefferkopf: sandy clay on granite rock, dedicated to Gewurztraminer

All the vineyards are cultivated using certified sustainable viticulture practices, and the estate's wines are certified Haute Valeur Environnementale.