Riesling AOP Alsace 2022

Vineyards

Riesling includes approximately 10% de-classified Grand Cru fruit from 30-year-old vines in Rosacker. The vineyards’ limestone-based soils enhance the wine's minerality and structure, capturing the region’s distinct character and climate.

Winemaking

The grapes for this Riesling are whole-bunch pressed and undergo natural yeast fermentation in stainless steel to retain freshness and purity. Following fermentation, the wine is aged on fine lees for 6 months, imparting texture and complexity, while a gentle filtration just before bottling preserves the wine’s vibrant qualities.

Appearance

A bright straw yellow with a clear, pale hue.

Nose

Intense floral and citrus aromas, complemented by a subtle mineral backing, offer a fresh and expressive bouquet.

Palate

Dry and finely textured, this Riesling showcases flavours of lemon and green apple with a strong mineral backbone. A well-integrated acidity provides refreshing balance, leading to a clean, lingering finish that reflects the limestone-rich soils.

Food pairing

Ideal for pairing with seafood, poultry, light salads, or Asian dishes with a touch of spice, where the wine’s acidity and minerality enhance the 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.