Riesling Fronholz 2021 Ostertag | Alsace

A terroir worthy of a Premier Cru, Fronholtz is distinguished from the others by the south-western exposure of its vines. On top of that, it's located at the top of the Epfig hill. This type of sunshine is rare in Alsace for a Riesling. Riesling usually complains about cold, austere places. But this is truly grandiose, this wine has soul, the precision of Riesling concentrated in a bottle, it's extraordinary, undoubtedly one of the greatest Alsatian Rieslings. Arthur Ostertag, the current winemaker, says that this terroir produces wines of stone, and these sensations are very much in evidence during tasting.

Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin: Arthur Ostertag stands out from the crowd. His thoughtful approach to working his soil and his wines. The quality of the soils on Fronholtz is extraordinary. A blend of quartz and white sand on the surface and clay at depth. This unique terroir gives the wine minerality and fine balance.

On the nose, the wine reveals notes of apple, white peach and citrus. The strength of the terroir, which contains mainly clay, is evident. The bouquet is delicate and very fresh. In true Ostertag wine estate style, a superb nose that reveals itself well even in youth.

The palate is greedy, full of fruit and beautifully structured. There are exotic notes (guava, orange blossom) and a touch of verbena. The acidity is magnificent, giving the wine tone. The finish has a light saline touch.

A great terroir for a great Riesling with magnificent ageing potential. This wine is a must-have for all connoisseurs of fine, lively, dry Rieslings. André Ostertag's son Arthur has undeniably been there.

Following the tasting evening held at Mundovin on November 16, 2023, the feedback was unanimous. A great wine in the making, already magnificent today, even if it deserves a few years.