Hugel Gentil, Alsace, France 2023

Tasting

As a state of mind, the perfect Gentil should be aromatic, aperitive, yet dry and gastronomic. On the nose, the fruit of the aromatic grapes composing it presents itself first, unmistakably Alsace, it opens on yellow plums, rose, quince, citrus zests. Generous, it quickly invites you to a first sip. In mouth, harmony prevails. Supple, the palate unfolds, pleasant, graceful, leading to a delicate, fresh finish.

Quick View

The perfect introduction to Alsace wines as it combines the qualities of all our white varietals. This wine revives an ancient Alsace tradition that wines assembled from noble grape varieties were called “Gentil”. Gentil “Hugel” allies the suave, spicy flavour of Gewurztraminer, the body of Pinot Gris, the finesse of Riesling, the grapiness of Muscat and the refreshing character of Pinot Blanc and Sylvaner.

In the vineyard

A kaleidoscope of grapiness, produced exclusively from hand harvested grapes in predominantly clay and limestone vineyards, from a dozen of the most favored localities in and around Riquewihr. A cool and long growing season gives this unique dry wine great finesse and unequalled drinkability.

Winemaking

The grapes are taken in small tubs to the presses, which are filled by gravity, without any pumping or other mechanical intervention. After pressing, the must is decanted for a few hours, then fermented in temperature-controlled vats (at 18 to 24°C). The wine is racked just once, before natural clarification during the course of the winter. The following spring, the wine is lightly filtered just before bottling, and the bottles are then aged in our cellars until released for sale. The whole production of this wine is closed with DIAM the cork without the risk of cork taint.

Varietals

Gewürztraminer : 30%
Pinot gris : 24%
Riesling : 19%
Sylvaner : 18%
Pinot blanc : 6%
Muscat blanc à petits grains : 3%