Pinot Gris AOP Alsace 2022

Vineyards

This Pinot Gris is sourced from 37-year-old vines situated in Hunawihr, where deep clay soils with limestone elements provide a rich, full-bodied texture and subtle mineral undertones. The clay in particular enhances softness and length on the palate, while the limestone adds finesse, creating a balance of power and precision.

Winemaking

Approximately 20% of this cuvée is aged in old, neutral oak barrels, with the remaining portion vinified in stainless steel to retain freshness. The combination of both ageing methods, along with complete malolactic fermentation, imparts texture and depth, preserving the wine’s fruit-forward character while adding a rounded mouthfeel.

Appearance

A pale straw hue with a brilliant clarity.

Nose

Aromatic with enticing notes of ripe pear, Jonathan apple, and a hint of quince, accompanied by subtle floral undertones of honeysuckle and a whisper of ginger spice.

Palate

Rich and concentrated, this Pinot Gris showcases flavours of juicy pear, apple, and honeysuckle. A gentle background of quince and ginger spice adds complexity, while the soft, full-bodied texture is balanced by a fresh acidity. The slight residual sweetness provides a lush, lingering finish, making this vintage approachable now, yet structured enough to age for a few more years.

Food pairing

An ideal choice for pairing with rich dishes such as creamy poultry, pork, or soft cheeses. The wine’s round texture and balanced acidity also make it a versatile companion for spiced dishes and autumnal flavours.

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.