Domaine Josmeyer – Sense of place, biodynamic rigor, and Alsatian elegance

The Domaine Josmeyer, located in Wintzenheim in the Colmar region, is one of the most respected and unique names in the Alsatian vineyard. Founded in the 19th century and now run by sisters Céline and Isabelle Meyer, the estate is renowned for its dry, chiseled, and deep white wines, driven by demanding biodynamic viticulture and a minimalist approach in the cellar.

The estate covers about 28 hectares of vineyards, some of which are located on highly reputed terroirs, notably the grand crus Brand and Hengst. These south-facing slopes, composed of granite, limestone, or marl, offer a geological diversity that the estate seeks to express without artifice. The influence of the Colmar microclimate, one of the driest in France, gives the grapes optimal ripeness while preserving their natural acidity.

Since the late 1990s, Josmeyer has been cultivated biodynamically, with Demeter certification obtained in 2004. This approach is based on observing lunar cycles, using plant-based preparations, homemade compost, and soil work that respects microbial life. The vines are managed with moderate density, without herbicides or synthetic products, in a logic of low yield and great natural concentration.

The harvest, entirely manual, is carried out with rigorous sorting. The grapes are pressed whole, very slowly, to extract all the subtlety without harshness. Fermentations are spontaneous, sometimes very long, and occur exclusively with indigenous yeasts. Aging takes place in old Alsatian foudres, on fine lees, without stirring or systematic filtration. Sulfur is used sparingly, only according to the needs of the vintage.

The wines of Domaine Josmeyer are distinguished by their purity, tense structure, and almost meditative dimension. They resolutely move away from exuberant expressions of the grape variety to anchor themselves in a form of expressive sobriety, where every detail counts. The palate is straight, mouthwatering, deeply mineral. The fruit is present, but it never dominates the texture or the acidic line of the wine.

The Rieslings of the estate, whether from Brand, Hengst, or more "village" terroirs, are straight, vertical, infused with notes of lemon, warm stone, and white flowers. The Pinot Gris, often misunderstood, is here enhanced with a dry brilliance and an earthy depth rarely achieved. As for the Gewurztraminers, they avoid caricature: they are fine, delicately spiced, tense, almost saline.

The Josmeyer style is also distinguished by a search for overall aesthetics, even in the labels, often illustrated by artists. This artistic coherence reflects the humanistic vision of the estate: to produce living, readable, sustainable wines that carry meaning.

Iconic Cuvées

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  The Riesling "Le Kottabe": Purity and verticality on granite terroir, citrus nose, lively tension, great drinkability.

  
  
  
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  Pinot Gris "Fromenteau": Dry and structured, smoky and spicy notes, ample but tense texture.

  
  
  
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  Grand Cru Brand – Riesling: Pure granite terroir, crystalline expression, long salinity, considerable aging potential.

  
  
  
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  Grand Cru Hengst – Riesling or Gewurztraminer: Limestone and marl, restrained power, noble vinosity, persistent finish.

  
  
  
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  Muscat "Les Fruits": Precise floral expression, very dry, vibrant and gourmand without sugar.