Ostertag - Riesling Muenchberg Grand Cru

Since taking over the family farm in 1980, André Ostertag has brought this small property in the village of Epfig to the summits of Alsatian wine, becoming an icon in the world of biodynamic farming and a valiant ambassador of terroir-driven natural wines in the process. Now officially retired, André has passed this legendery estate to his son, Arthur.
The estate is spread over 15 hectares. In an act of rejection against the official classifications dictated by the A.O.C., Ostertag made up their own categories:

- - Vins de Fruit that express fruit character rather than that of a specific vineyard site;
  - Vins de Pierre reflecting the terroir from which they originate;
  - Vins de Temps that rely on time and weather to encourage the development of botrytis.

Biodynamic. 70 years old Riesling vines - Vin de Pierre. From the Alsatian “muench” meaning monk, this vineyard is named for the Cistercian monks who originally planted vines here in the 11th-12th centuries. In a south-facing amphitheater in Nothalten at the foot of the Vosges mountains (between Selesta and Obernai), the Muenchberg site combines volcanic sediment and the pink sandstone of the Vosges with a touch of limestone. The vineyard offers definition, elegance, and great length and class to this Riesling. Ostertag is lucky to own parcels in both parts of the Muenchberg grand cru, which are climatically different, and so is able to make more complete Muenchberg wines than most producers. At 250-300 meters above sea level, the Muenchberg is slightly higher than the Heissenberg (which sits at 200-250 meters) and is characterized by a somewhat gentler slope; therefore this site is less of a sun trap compared to the Heissenberg.

This beautiful south-facing amphitheater has been planted since the 12th century. Ostertag’s 1.65ha are vinified to produce a wine blending intensity and elegance. Powdered stone, lemon verbena, and jasmine complicate the green apple and nectarine aromas and flavors. Then juicy and tight, hints of anise and minerals framing the lively pomaceous orchard fruit flavors. Finishes long, with repeating nuances of lime and flowers and a laser beam of acidity.