Vineyards and winemaking
In Alsace, wines labelled Pinot Blanc may include the closely related Auxerrois, and Domaine Mader’s 2022 cuvée is composed of approximately 85% Auxerrois and 15% Pinot Blanc. The fruit comes from certified-organic vineyards and is harvested entirely by hand.
The grapes are whole-bunch pressed and fermented with indigenous yeasts. Around 15% of the wine is raised in seasoned barrels, with the balance in stainless steel; full malolactic fermentation and time on fine lees give the 2022 its rounded texture while retaining a clean, dry finish.
Tasting notes
Appearance
Pale straw gold with bright clarity.
Nose
White blossom, ripe pear and yellow apple are joined by lemon zest and a discreet hint of almond.
Palate
Supple and quietly generous, with orchard fruit at the centre and a soft, creamy edge from lees maturation. Citrus freshness keeps the wine precise, while the small seasoned-barrel component adds breadth rather than an overt oak flavour.
Food pairing
Pair with a traditional fish pie, roast chicken with lemon and tarragon, mussels cooked with cider, or a leek and Gruyère tart. The gentle texture also suits simply grilled white fish with parsley butter.
Background story
The Mader family has worked from Hunawihr since Jean-Luc and Anne established the domaine in 1981. Jérôme Mader assumed responsibility in 2005, securing organic certification two years later and continuing the estate’s restrained, dry interpretation of Alsace varieties.
Alsace-born Master Sommelier Eric Zweibel recommended Domaine Mader to Sommelier’s Choice after training under the late Gérard Basset MS MW. This Pinot Blanc captures the value of that recommendation in an understated form: hand-worked fruit, subtle cellar craft and the versatility expected of a serious restaurant white.
