Josmeyer, near Colmar, farms their 28 hectares of vineyards organically and and biodynamically; they have been agriculture biologique (AB) certified since 2004. Annual rainfall in this region is the lowest in France, and the wines are known for their ripeness. The 130-hectare Hengst Grand Cru vineyard inclines atop an ancient stratum of limestone, chalky marl, and sedimentary stone. Vinification of this Riesling was conducted in stainless steel using ambient yeast, and the wine saw only stainless prior to filtration and bottling.
It’s a medium gold color with shiny yellow highlights. The scent mingles wax, sueded leather, orange blossom, and street. The palate suggests ginger and fleshy pears, and although the acidity is moderate, the oily minerals are pronounced from the first breath to the finish. There is surprisingly little oxidation yet, but this is a big wine, earthy and full-figured and wearing chunky jewelry. It should develop beautifully in bottle over several more years.
A personality like this needs room on the table. Pair it now with ripe bloomy-rind cow’s milk cheeses, roasted poultry, or light game.
14% abv | $52 (sample) Imported by Domaine Select Wine Estates
Surprised by your comment regarding oxidation. Were you expecting to find some in an 8 year old bottling, from a good producer and fine site?
Yes, but meaning only bottle age—we used to say “bouquet,” before everyone scorned that term—not that it was DOA.
Thanks. Given the scourge of premox I had to ask.