Stuart,
No, that was not revealed. I believe it was right around '83 when I went. L’Auberge did not appear as if it was suffering from any lack of business. The place was full of diners, and they seemed to be mostly French, Swiss, and Germans. At any rate, the meal and the experience were an epiphany and if what you say is true, it doesn’t detract from the pleasure we received by Mr. Trimbach’s act of kindness to us, even if his palm was greased by the Haeberlins.
Cheers,
Harry
My one visit to Trimbach, in the 80s, was an experience I’ll never forget. I went with my mother, and I don’t recall which of the two brothers showed us around (it was the one who spoke English fluently) but we got a really nice tour and tasting when it became clear that I was somewhat knowledgeable about the wines of Alsace and Trimbach’s in particular. He personally called to L’ Auberge de L’ill and got us reservation on a day’s notice. My mother still recounts that story with reverence.
Probably Jean. He does most of the front of the cellar work and has excellent English. Pierre only comes out of the cellars rarely, and while his English is good, he is shy about using it.
Oh, if it was in the early 80’s, it might have been Hubert, Pierre and Jean’s uncle.
Only kidding, Harry…in response to your comment earlier…about dropping my name there.
I bet they called Serge Dubs, who was in '83 and is still the sommelier there as far as I know. He was/is very involved in the Alsace wine trade…and promoting its wines at the L’Auberge. He served us our first special Alsace riesling in '83…I still remember it…and its name. We went to Riquewihr the next day to buy more…and did.
Touché! I remember the sommelier, and IIRC, the wine we had: a 76 Gustave Lorentz Riesling…lovely!
Great thread - glad I found it. I am also visiting in a month or so. Do most of the places mentioned need a reservation or can you just show up?
I had reservations at the places I visited. My guess is that even for places where reservations are not needed, you will drink better with reservations.
I’ll be there in September - staying in Eguisheim. Will be traveling with my brother who’s not really a white wine guy, but loves beer. Do most of these suggestions have drop by tasting rooms?
Alsace is a big vacation spot with the French and Germans. They get lots of visitors who know little about their wines and just show up. While you can just show up at some of the larger domaines, reservations are always best.
Just been out there. You need to make reservations if your are keen to get the proper visit
Loved Boxler. Great people, great location, super fine wines.
Zind Humbrecht line up is utterly stunning.
Paul Blanck is worth a visit for really good wines and Philippe is a lovely guy.
Clement Klur, biodynamic dude, is worth a visit too - some super wines.
Josmeyer also a must-visit.
And Dirler Cade, another biodynamic operation, great people, lovely wines.