2018 Jean-Luc Mader Pinot Blanc, Alsace

The Mader domaine is a very small quantity, high quality wine producer based in the picture postcard village of Hunawihr in the middle of vineyards on the Route des Vins. In June 2019 their 2018 Rieslings were both rated among the best of the vintage by Revue du Vins de France magazine who have also rank the estate among the best of Alsace each year.

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.

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 very strict ensuring the highest quality. The entire range of wines from the Mader family taste true to their grape varieties and vineyard origins and all represent fantastic value.

Floral and textural. Made from a blend of 2/3rds Auxerrois and 1/3rd Pinot Blanc this shows classic white flower and citric aromas leading to a crisp and refreshing palate.
2017 review “Plenty of floral-honey, baked-apple and quince character, making this light-bodied and supple dry white very easy to enjoy.  90.”   JamesSuckling.com May 2018