Josmeyer Pinot Gris “Le Fromenteau” 2019

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1854, Domaine Josmeyer is a family-owned estate located in Wintzenheim, near Colmar, in the Alsace region of France. Over five generations, the Meyer family has cultivated a reputation for producing high-quality wines that express the unique terroirs of Alsace. In 1992, under the guidance of Jean Meyer, the estate embraced organic and biodynamic farming practices, achieving certification in 2000. This commitment to sustainable viticulture reflects their philosophy of harmony between the vine, soil, and environment. The estate spans 28 hectares, with vineyards planted on diverse soils, including gravel, sand, and marl-limestone, allowing for a wide range of expressive wines. Josmeyer is renowned for its dry, gastronomic wines, often featuring artistic labels that highlight the family’s appreciation for art and culture.

Producer and Winemaker

Currently, the estate is managed by sisters Céline and Isabelle Meyer, daughters of Jean Meyer. Céline oversees the vineyards and winemaking, ensuring that the biodynamic principles are meticulously applied to produce wines that reflect their terroir. Isabelle handles the estate’s administration and marketing, bringing the wines to a global audience. Together, they continue the family tradition of crafting elegant and expressive Alsace wines.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The grapes for “Le Fromenteau” are sourced from a dozen small parcels located around the communes of Wintzenheim, Turckheim, and Wettolsheim. These vineyards are situated at elevations up to 450 meters and are characterized by alluvial and gravelly soils. The gravelly soils provide excellent drainage, encouraging deep root systems and contributing to the mineral complexity of the wine. The region experiences a semi-continental climate, with cold winters and warm, sunny summers. The Vosges Mountains to the west provide a rain shadow effect, resulting in lower rainfall and promoting optimal ripening conditions. This unique microclimate, combined with the diverse soil composition, allows for the cultivation of Pinot Gris grapes that are both expressive and balanced, capturing the essence of their terroir.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Pinot Gris

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2019 “Le Fromenteau” Pinot Gris is crafted following traditional methods that respect the biodynamic principles upheld by Domaine Josmeyer. The harvest is conducted entirely by hand, ensuring that only the healthiest grapes are selected. Upon arrival at the winery, the whole clusters are gently pressed in pneumatic presses for approximately six hours, allowing for a delicate extraction of juice while minimizing the extraction of bitter compounds. The must undergoes natural settling without the addition of enzymes, promoting clarity before fermentation. Fermentation is initiated spontaneously with indigenous yeasts present in the environment, taking place in century-old wooden casks. This approach preserves the natural expression of the terroir and grape variety. Following fermentation, the wine is aged on its fine lees for several months, enhancing its texture and complexity. Prior to bottling, which typically occurs in late spring or early summer, the wine is filtered to ensure stability and clarity. This meticulous process results in a dry Pinot Gris that is both firm and fleshy, embodying the essence of its origin.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Approximately 13.3%

Tasting Notes

The 2019 “Le Fromenteau” Pinot Gris presents a waxy palate feel, with aromas of pear and lychee. The wine is juicy and concentrated, reflecting the warmth of the vintage. On the palate, it offers a firm and fleshy structure, with earthy and saline notes that evolve with aeration. The finish is long and persistent, marked by a supple yet firm acidity and a pronounced salinity that underscores its mineral character.

Food & Wine Pairing

This dry Pinot Gris pairs beautifully with dishes that highlight its earthy and saline qualities. It complements lentil-based dishes, such as lentil stews or salads, as well as Middle Eastern cuisine like hummus and falafel. The wine’s firm structure and persistent finish also make it a suitable match for roasted poultry, mushroom risotto, and aged cheeses, enhancing the flavors and providing a harmonious dining experience.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate the aromatic complexity and texture of the 2019 “Le Fromenteau” Pinot Gris, it is recommended to serve the wine at a temperature between 10-12°C (50-54°F). Use medium-sized white wine glasses to allow the aromas to develop fully. Decanting is not necessary, but opening the bottle 15-20 minutes before serving can help the wine to open up and reveal its full spectrum of flavors.

Storage and Aging Potential

While this wine is enjoyable upon release, it possesses the structure and complexity to benefit from short to medium-term cellaring. When stored in optimal conditions—away from light, at a consistent temperature of around 12°C (54°F), and with moderate humidity—the 2019 “Le Fromenteau” can develop additional nuances over the next 5 to 7 years, gaining in richness and depth.