Hugel Pinot Gris

Pinot Gris is one of the four Noble Grapes of Alsace, a region in the east of France bordering Germany. The grape when grown in Alsace creates a wine that is quite different, with more richness and complexity than Pinot Grigio, even though they are the same grape. The resulting wine is dry as well as aromatic, with rich apricot and peach notes on the nose. From a drastic selection of the best grapes purchased from winegrowers under long-term contract in a dozen of the most favored localities in and around the village of Riquewihr and includes a sizable amount of grapes declassified from some Grand Cru vineyards of the Hugel estate. The hand-picked grapes were taken intact to the presses, filled by gravity, the must decanted for a few hours, then fermented in temperature-controlled vats with natural yeasts. From the winemaker: Rich and full but still dry. Pinot Gris can be discreet, but also has the longest aging potential. The bouquet is soft and supple, intense, characteristically open and expressive, with fully ripe fruit notes, apricot, wild plum, licorice, a touch of buttery brioche, sesame seed, pistachio and fresh hazelnut. The wine fills the mouth and is well constructed, suave, velvety, soft and almost juicy, with a nice long aromatic finish. About the Brand: For over 370 years and with 13-family generations the Hugel family has unrivaled experience and knowledge of Alsace vineyards and winemaking. Known today for their passion and modern outlook, the dynamic Hugel family, located in the picture-postcard fortified village of Riquewihr, has earned a worldwide reputation for their Alsace wines. From Hugel’s Grossi Laüe to Vendange Tardive, their wines are released only when the family agrees they are ready; the focus is ultimate quality. A first-time taste of these wines is a revelation. Critical Acclaim: 2018: 90 points Wine Enthusiast "Notes of ripe yellow pear on the nose promise juiciness and freshness. Delivering on both counts, the palate presents an easy and appetizing core of green and yellow pear. The rounded body preserves freshness that brightens the dry finish." Wine Enthusiast