Cave de Hunawihr
This small co-operative, founded in 1954, has 110 members and 200 hectares of...
vineyard in the Haut-Rhin, nine kilometres from Colmar. Their wines are vinified using only their members' grapes, with a focus on expressing the rich diversity of Alsatian soils. Winemaker Nicolas Garde started at the winery in 2004 and his influence continues to be seen in the way the wines improve with each vintage.
Vineyards
Sheltered from oceanic influence by the Vosges Mountains, the Alsace wine region has a semi-continental climate which stays sunny and dry throughout the growing season, and this lengthens the ripening period for the grapes. The slopes surrounding Hunawihr, a picturesque village of half-timbered houses and a 14th century church, are some of the most celebrated in Alsace for grape-growing. Cave de Hunawihr’s fruit is sourced from 25 year-old vines grown in vineyards running along the south and south-east facing hillside slopes around the village, at an altitude of 250-320 metres. The vineyards cover an area of 36 hectares, located on a geological fault line across Ribeauvillé which gives soils composed of clayey limestone marl and chalky gravels.
Vintage Information
In 2016, nature took its time to reveal good quantities of bright, ripe fruits. Budburst began in May, and flowering started in early June. The vines continued to mature until the end of August. Harvest started on 14th September for the Crémants and 7th October for the other wines. The wines of this vintage are fresh and light, with plenty of vivacity.
Vinification
This Pinot Blanc is a blend of micro-parcels from the Hunawihr vineyards. The temperature controlled fermentation took place between 16-18°C for three weeks, followed by four months in stainless steel tanks to settle before careful filtration. No malolactic fermentation was allowed to take place.
Tasting Notes
Pale, almost luminous yellow, with an elegant silver tint. Very fresh and striking on the nose, with citrus aromas and a floral hint. Rich and silky, this is a full-bodied wine with good balance and fresh acidity. A lovely bouquet of lemon and pear continues on the long finish.
Vintage Information
| Vintage | 2016 |
| Grape varieties | 100% Pinot Blanc/Pinot Bianco |
| Region | Haut-Rhin, Alsace |
| Winemaker | Nicolas Garde |
| Alcohol (ABV) | 12.5% |
| Residual Sugar | 5.5g/l |
Trade customers
Liberty Wines customers can order this wine directly from us.