Wine of the Month: Discovering an Easy-Going White from Alsace

This biodynamic domaine is located in Hunawihr, nestled in the Alsace wine region.

There is an abundance of quality originating from Alsace, a small and historic area in the northeast of France, making it challenging to choose just one bottle. However, this Grand Cru Riesling from Domaine Christophe Mittnacht’s “Terre d’Etoiles” collection truly shone among a galaxy of white wines this summer.

A dry and delightful Riesling crafted by a biodynamic producer

This wine entices with a fragrant bouquet of lemon curd, combined with the traditional petrol and honey notes characteristic of Riesling. It invites you into a rich flavor profile that showcases more citrus, lively acidity, tarragon, and other herbal nuances, accompanied by a stony minerality. Overall, it presents a sleek and elegant profile, providing a lush mouthfeel and a lengthy, refreshing finish.

Alsace is a tapestry of soils and terroirs renowned for its Grand Crus, which represent a longstanding tradition of exceptionally crafted wines at remarkably appealing prices. This particular wine is expertly handled by Christophe Mittnacht, a pioneer of biodynamic practices in the region. His winery achieved organic certification in 1999, marking it as one of the first in Alsace. The grapes are harvested from a plot of 35-year-old vines located in the Rosacker Grand Cru of Hunawihr, where many enthusiasts believe lies the Holy Grail of Riesling, Clos-St.-Hune. The unique clay and limestone soils here are instrumental in imparting richness to the wine’s flavor profile.

Christophe’s wife, Yuka, hails from Japan, and he was motivated to create wines that would complement sushi and other seafood served at her family’s restaurant. A notable option to explore is the “Gyotaku” white blend, which has been crafted specifically with this pairing in mind. Priced at around $29, it represents an excellent value.

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About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!