Riesling AOP Alsace Lieu-Dit Haguenau 2019

Vineyards

From the renowned Haguenau Lieu-dit vineyard in Alsace, this Riesling benefits from south-east facing slopes on limestone and marl-rich soils. This specific location, on the northern side of Ribeauville, creates a warm microclimate that retains heat throughout the day and releases it at night, ensuring ripeness and richness in the wine while preserving a strong acidic backbone due to the limestone bedrock. Domaine Mader’s dedication to organic and biodynamic farming further enhances the purity and depth of the fruit.

Winemaking

The hand-harvested Riesling grapes undergo fermentation with native yeasts in temperature-controlled stainless steel to highlight the natural character of the terroir. A period of lees aging follows, imparting texture and finesse to the wine’s profile without overpowering its vibrant acidity.

Appearance

A clear, bright straw yellow with pale green reflections.

Nose

Expressive and aromatic, with notes of citrus, green apple, and subtle floral accents, complemented by a stony, mineral quality typical of the limestone terroir.

Palate

The palate is structured and fresh, offering layers of lemon zest, crisp pear, and an elegant minerality. The limestone’s influence brings a precise, refreshing acidity, balancing the rich fruit with a long, clean finish.

Food pairing

This Riesling pairs beautifully with oily fish, shellfish, and lightly spiced Asian dishes. Its acidity and minerality also make it a perfect match for creamy sauces and earthy vegetable-based dishes.

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.