Domaine Charles Frey 'Macération' Alsace AOC 2023

The Rhine that separates France from Germany flows between two natural barriers: the hills of the Black Forest to the east and the Vosges mountains to the west. The town of Dambach-la-Ville, where the Frey family has cultivated grapes since the 18th century, backs up to the foothills of the Vosges at the western edge of the plain stretching down to the river. On an east-facing slope protected from the prevailing wind, with granite soils that force the vines to send roots deep into the soil for nutrients, the area’s vineyards are very well situated. Local legend has it that it was an enterprising bear who first discovered the region’s grapes, in the forest above the medieval town; the bear remains the symbol of Dambach-la-Ville. Now operated by third generation winemaker Dominique Frey (Charles’s grandson), the Frey family carries on the region’s centuries-old winemaking tradition, while at the same time forging their own path with their commitment to sustainable agriculture. Domaine Charles Frey was one of the first producers in Alsace to convert to organic farming practices in 1996, and they have since achieved biodynamic certification. Their ‘Macération’ is a blend of gewürztraminer and muscat, fermented in stainless steel tanks with skin contact for 15 days before pressing. The wine is then aged in 600L barrels for 9 months prior to bottling, with no sulfur added. Lively notes of spiced tangerine, apricot, and papaya dance around dashes of white pepper and hints of dried wildflowers. Zesty acidity, gentle tannin structure, and a refreshing, clean finish make this a great match with a variety of cuisines. Certified biodynamic, low-intervention/natural wine, vegan.