2021 Jean-Luc Mader Gewurztraminer, Alsace

2021 vintage: Jerome Mader describes 2021 as “more than just good. Salty, fresh, elegant and never too much. 2021 is a classic vintage that we might ever make again, as climate takes us in another direction. It reminds us of Alsace wines made 30 years ago.”

All grapes are hand harvested, all whole bunch pressed, natural yeast ferments in stainless and aged on fine lees for 6-8 months before bottling with light filtration. Part of Pinot Gris Grand Cru Schlossberg is aged in used barrel.

The Mader domaine is a very small quantity, high quality wine producer based in the picture postcard village of Hunawihr just south of Ribeauville. The family own just over 10 hectares of vineyards, including  prized holdings of vines in the famous ‘Rosacker’ Grand Cru vineyard and also now in the Grand cru Schlossberg. All vineyard work is carried out by hand and since 2005 their son Jerome is now running the estate having studied and gained a Diploma in Oenology. Since returning to the family estate Jerome has also converted all their vineyards to organic viticulture (certified organic since 2007).

Rieslings here are some of the few in Alsace produced in a classic fine dry style built to age. In exceptional years a tiny volume of late harvest ‘Vendanges Tardive’ Riesling is made in a similar fine, elegant style that ages superbly. Jerome is fanatical about quality so yields are kept very low and selections for all wines are extremely strict ensuring the highest quality in every bottle. The entire range of wines from the Mader family taste true to their grape varieties and vineyard origins and all represent fantastic value.