WTN: Schlumberger Riesling GC Saering 2002

Domaines Schlumberger Riesling Saering GC 2002 12% 19,99€

The colour is a bit darker than expected of such a young wine. The nose is typical Alsace: powerful and steely, yet elegant and a bit petrolly. Yet there was a curious note of minty toothpaste to it. I've recently had several Rieslings with this note to it. Anyone else notice it? I don't find it particularily appealing.

The palate is, again, typical Alsace in being dry and powerful, mineral. This is a good wine, especially if I tune out the toothpaste smell!

I keep on hearing over here that Schlumberger isn't really a good producer, but this wine (apart from the toothpaste scent) is all I look for in Alsace Riesling. How is it generally regarded over in other countries?

-Otto-

Otto,

I'm quite sure that the hate mail will come rolling, but I've never been blown away by Schlumberger. I believe them to be a good hen who never quite lays the golden egg. They certainly haven't fared well in Alsatian tastings I've done and IMHO have been asleep on their laurels the last years. I haven't had the '02 Saering though and I have been wrong before.


Prost!
Bill

I'm quite sure that the hate mail will come rolling, but I've never been blown away by Schlumberger

Hate mail? I don't see people waxing poetic about Schlumberger in these parts. I don't have the most extensive experience, but nice, good, correct, but neither excellent or inspired was the consensus I've seen.

Rahsaan,

I'm glad we agree, but there are some 'old timers' who put Schlumberger up there with canned ham and the automobile.


Bill

Not only canned ham, what about spam?!!

but there are some 'old timers' who put Schlumberger up there with canned ham and the automobile.

You mean as welcome inventions?

Canned ham sounds like a derogatory comment to me.

Thanks for the views! I guess there is still potential in their sites to lay the golden egg?