One of our personal favourites and one of the most respected of all Alsace producers is the House of Hugel, which recently celebrated 350 years of winemaking excellence, encompassing 12 generations. They produce some of the finest white wines in the world.

Based in the village of Riquewihr, the Hugels are dedicated to producing wines of an extraordinarily high standard, each true to the grape variety from which it is produced. With exceptional climatic and geographical advantages, the Riquewihr vineyards of Hugel are amongst the most prestigious in Alsace.

While producing from each grape variety the best wine possible, Hugel categorise their wines according to the quality and ripeness of fruit.

Denoted by the varietal name alone, their (dare we say) ‘standard’ wines are deliciously dry and crisp, while exhibiting typical varietal characteristics such as spicy, aromatic Gewurztraminer and perfumed, fresh and fruity Muscat.

The varietal names followed by ‘Tradition’ indicate wines produced from riper grapes and hence with a greater richness and depth, while still being dry.

Produced only in the very best years are the ‘Reserve Personnelle’ wines. Rich, round, full and packed with powerful, complex flavours, they are a wonderful accompaniment to food.

The remaining two styles of wines were pioneered by Hugel. ‘Vendanges Tardive’, literally late picked grapes, are produced when the grapes are left on the vine for up to six weeks after the harvest has begun, producing wines with an amazingly intense richness and a touch of sweetness. These wines are produced only under special climatic conditions and from the very finest vineyards.

Lastly, the rich, sweet and rare ‘Selection de Grains Nobles’, wines made like the finest Sauternes and Barsacs from grapes attacked by the Noble Rot, which shrivels the grape, leaving behind only the concentrated natural sugar. These wines are rich and luscious, a sensual but rarely found experience.

The wines of Hugel, whichever style and grape variety you choose, will never fail to please. From the light and uncomplicated Sylvaner to the very greatest Grains Nobles, they are all extremely fine, well-made wines.