Riesling AOP Alsace Grand Cru Rosacker 2015

Vineyards

Sourced from the esteemed Rosacker Grand Cru vineyard in Alsace, this Riesling reflects the terroir’s limestone-rich soils and favorable hillside location, which contribute to its minerality and vibrant acidity. Domaine Mader’s biodynamic practices ensure that the soil’s unique character is fully expressed, enhancing the depth and complexity of this vintage.

Winemaking

Produced from old vines, some over 60 years in age, the grapes for this Riesling are handpicked to preserve quality. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, allowing the fruit’s purity to shine. The wine is then aged on fine lees, enhancing both texture and aromatic richness.

Appearance

A luminous pale yellow with brilliant clarity.

Nose

Complex and aromatic, offering bright citrus notes, such as lemon and lime, balanced by green apple and a hint of wet stone. Subtle honey and floral undertones provide additional layers, showcasing the finesse of this Grand Cru Riesling.

Palate

Full of energy and structure, this wine reveals flavours of zesty lemon, juicy pear, and flinty minerality. Its vibrant acidity ensures a refreshing, long finish, with an elegant balance that highlights both the fruit and mineral aspects. The wine’s structure supports mid- to long-term aging, promising further complexity with cellaring.

Food pairing

A superb match for seafood, shellfish, and light poultry dishes, as well as vegetarian meals featuring fresh herbs. A natural partner for spicy food. The wine’s acidity and minerality complement rich flavours also make it versatile for fine dining.

Background story

Domaine Jean-Luc Mader was founded in 1981 by Jean-Luc and Anne Mader in the picturesque village of Hunawihr in Alsace, known for its rich viticultural heritage dating back to the 7th century. Their son, Jérôme, took over in 2005 after completing his oenology studies, guiding the estate through a conversion to organic and biodynamic farming, with certification achieved in 2007.

The domaine’s 11 hectares of vineyards, divided into 38 separate parcels, stretch across four renowned Alsace districts: Hunawihr, Ribeauville, Riquewihr, and Kientzheim. Among their most prestigious holdings are parcels in the Rosacker and Schlossberg Grand Cru vineyards, as well as other notable lieux-dits such as Muhlforst, Burgweg, and Haguenau. All vineyard work is done by hand, and meticulous attention to quality results in low yields, while whole-bunch fermentation allows for a long, slow vinification that enhances flavour and complexity.

Domaine Mader is deeply committed to sustainability, incorporating solar electricity, solar hot water, and ecological insulation to minimise its environmental impact. Their wines are celebrated for their precision, balance, and longevity, crafted in a drier style than typically expected for Alsace, making them popular among fine dining sommeliers worldwide. Notably, Domaine Mader was recommended by Eric Zweibel MS, a celebrated Alsace-born sommelier trained by the legendary Gérard Basset MS MW, who endorsed the wines for their finesse and authenticity.