Description
The Grand Cru Hengst from the Josmeyer estate is a truly beautiful Alsace Riesling. The nose opens with notes of yellow stone fruit, a splendid mineral backbone and hints of fresh herbs. The structure and density are impressive, as is the combination of finesse and complexity provided by this great marl-limestone terroir. A mineral and profound wine that finishes its mouth-watering run with hints of lime zest and a slight bitterness. A true ‘stallion’ (literally)!
The Hengst Grand Cru
Located in the commune of Wintzenheim, this terroir consists mainly of Oligocene limestone conglomerates (14% active limestone) and interbedded marls several hundred metres thick. These conglomerate formations are powerful and allow for the intercalation of red, brown, green or beige marls. All intermediate textures exist between coarse elements and fine sediments. The soil pH ranges from 7.8 to 8.3. The bedrock is orange-yellow in colour. This Grand Cru, compared by some critics to Chambertin in Burgundy, allows all Alsatian grape varieties to express themselves to perfection. It covers a defined area of 53.02 hectares of vineyards.
In the vineyard, in the cellar
Since 2004, the entire vineyard has been cultivated organically and biodynamically. This alternative, more demanding and quality-focused approach fosters a symbiosis between sky, earth, plant and man. This close relationship between these four elements produces noble grapes. These, in turn, give rise to a dense, balanced wine with a unique personality.
Hand-harvested and pneumatically pressed whole (over a period of 5 to 8 hours), the grapes are exclusively sourced from organic and biodynamic farming. They naturally impart their aromas to the must. They ferment spontaneously without the addition
of enzymes or selected yeasts, and without chaptalisation. After a fermentation period lasting between one and four months, they are aged, depending on the case, in century-old oak casks or stainless steel vats.
The Josmeyer estate’s Alsace Grand Cru Hengst is made from 100% Riesling from 45-year-old vines, with a yield of 40 hl/ha.
Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France ★★
Today, the fifth generation is at the helm of this estate founded in 1854: Céline in charge of management, and Isabelle overseeing winemaking. This effective duo continues to drive the quality of the wines, certified biodynamic, towards excellence. Art is ever-present in the Josmeyer family, with poems and drawings by the two sisters, sometimes on the labels or on the casks… You’ll need to keep your eyes peeled so as not to miss a thing during a visit to this exemplary estate! The style of the wines, focused on elegance, captivates us. The Hengst Grand Cru is at its very best here. Pinot Blanc and Auxerrois are the hallmarks of the estate’s iconic cuvées. This range of top-class wines will delight lovers of nuanced, crisp and dry wines.
What to eat with a Josmeyer Alsace Grand Cru Riesling Hengst?
Fine sea fish: sea bass, turbot, elbot, skate, monkfish and others. It will complement lobsters and langoustines beautifully. With a little ageing, sashimi will pair wonderfully with it. As for cheese, well-matured hard cheeses such as Comté or Gouda.
