The first traces of the Hugel family in Alsace can be traced back to the XVth century. Some two centuries later, Hans Ulrich Hugel settled in Riquewihr, which had been devastated by the terrible Thirty Years War. In 1639 he was made a freeman of the city and soon took charge of the very powerful Corporation of Winegrowers. In 1672 his son built a fine house in the Rue des Cordiers, and over the doorway was carved the family crest which was the origin of the company’s logo still used today.

The StarDozen consists of the following:

3 bottles         Hugel Pinot Gris Classic 2020
3 bottles         Hugel Pinot Blanc Classic 2021
3 bottles         Hugel Gewurztraminer Classic 2018
3 bottles         Hugel Riesling Classic 2021

Hugel Pinot Gris Classic 2020
Harvested exclusively by hand from clay and limestone vineyards in a dozen of the most favoured localities in and around Riquewihr with a high percentage of estate grapes. Of all the Alsace varieties, Pinot Gris has the greatest ageing potential.

Such a fragrant and delicately aromatic pinot gris. Super-ripe pear character plus a hint of floral honey, this has a lovely creamy texture. Remarkably long, silky finish for an entry-level wine! So delightful already, and it will give so much pleasure during the coming years. Drink or hold. Rating: 92 Points; James Suckling

Hugel Pinot Blanc Classic 2021
It is now the most planted varietal in Alsace. Delicate, subtle and well built, it makes an excellent aperitif because, although nicely rounded, it is also refreshing. The perfect all-purpose dry white wine, it is not far in style from an unoaked Chardonnay such as a Macon or Chablis. The wine welcomes with a light and bright robe. The nose, discrete, subtle and racy opens up on delicate floral notes, without excess, without a need to shout. On the palate, it is freshness that dominates, green apple and yellow plum, fresh hay bring up generosity and a lingering salivating structure invites for a bite.

Hugel Gewurztraminer Classic 2018
The spice of Alsace and one of Famille Hugel's signature wines. It is both aromatic and extroverted through its floral and spicy notes. Originally from northern Italy, this is the emblematic grape of the region due to its slow maturation with cool nights giving its full varietal expression. Dry but intensely aromatic.

A cascade of rose petals welcomes you to the world of drier-style gewurz, with a lovely, silky balance on the medium-to full-bodied palate. Delicate and light-footed finish. Nice, citrussy freshness. Drink now. Rating: 92 Points; James Suckling

Hugel Riesling Classic 2021
This is the Famille Hugel signature wine. This dry Riesling stands out for its finesse and frankness. Hugel calls Riesling the Pinot Noir of white wines! It is their most demanding variety as it is also the latest ripening. Dry and elegant, it expresses itself best on our steepest slopes with the most complex minerality.

Very vibrant and lemony – from the blossom to the zest! – this sleek entry-level dry riesling is wonderfully refreshing and animating. The fresh herbal notes amplify this effect. The crisp, long finish makes you want to sing and dance! Drink or hold. Rating: 91 Points; James Suckling