2020 Jean-Luc Mader Gewurztraminer, Alsace

The 2020 Gewurztraminer is sourced in the higher altitudes of Hunawihr (mostly Muhlforst which adjoins Grand cru Rosacker) from clay and limestone soils. It has a clear and fresh, pretty, precise and aromatic bouquet of rose water and wild roses with some smoky aromas. Bottled with 39 grams of residual sugar, this is a round and semi-sweet Gewurztraminer with good grip and some mineral characteristics. Despite the relatively high residual sugar count the balance is beautifully judged and the sweetness works seamlessly.

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.

In June 2021 their 2019 Rieslings were both rated among the best of the vintage by Revue du Vins de France magazine who have also ranked the estate among the best of Alsace each year.