The family domaine of Rolly Gassmann lies in the village of Rorschwihr, near Ribeauvillé in Alsace’s Haut-Rhine. The 51 hectare estate (40ha in Rorschwihr, 10ha in Bergheim) is owned and run by Marie-Therese, Louis & their son Pierre Gassmann, along with a team of 17 workers.
All are farmed organically using biodynamic practices – Pierre is a member of the Vignes Vivantes, a regional body dedicated to organic viticulture. All sites are farmed with green cover and only organic fertilizers are used. Harvest is by hand in all vineyard plots. They produce on average 300,000 bottles per annum and they are notable for having more than four years’ stock (1 million bottles) in stock at any one time. They only export 20% of their annual production. There are no Grand Crus in Rorschwihr, however there are some standout Crus/lieux-dits that would surely qualify as Premier Cru sites if ever this classification was tabled.
The Rolly Gassman Riesling has poise and elegance. With notes of lime peel and jasmine, fresh cut peaches and a tiny hint of honey. A dry white wine which is silky in the mouth with a lovely finish.
