Muenchberg means the “mountain of the monks” and was first planted in the 12th century by the Cistercian monks. We own 2.05Ha of which 1.65Ha are planted with Riesling. Muenchberg is one of the most unique grand crus of Alsace because of its very particular soil of red sandstone and volcanic sediments. It's a wonderful south-facing amphitheatre of vines in a closed valley, in the Vosges foothills, protected to the west by the 901m Ungersberg peak. The altitude ranges between 250 and 300m which prevents excessive heat and helps to keep complexity in the wines. Like all the Domaine's vineyards, the Riesling vines are farmed using biodynamic principles and certified organic. We pay particular attention to manual tasks on the vines because machines may be necessary sometimes but they will never have “man’s hand’s intelligent sensitivity”.
The 2018 Riesling grapes were hand-picked and gently pressed as whole bunches in a pneumatic press for about 10 hours. It fermented in stainless steel with natural yeasts and was kept on lees for one year. It was bottled in early May 2020 with a balance of 13.5% alcohol and 7g/L of residual sugar – dry wine certified organic and biodynamic. The Muenchberg Riesling has incomparable elegance and intensity. The delicate texture of the sandstone meets the power of the volcano in a sensual yet highly vibrating wine. The feminine charm of sandstone balances perfectly the masculine fire of the volcano. The finish is everlasting, salty and spicy, of rare complexity and nobility. Patience is always rewarded with the Muenchberg wines. Drink them either in their first spring after a long decanting, or after at least five years of cellaring. - Arthur Ostertag