Le Jardin de la Source VdF 2024

Wine Description for Le Jardin de la Source VdF 2024 by Hunter McKirdy

Colour & Appearance

Pale, radiant golden yellow with brilliant clarity – a wine that promises purity and precision at first glance.

Nose

Here reveals itself a fascinating complexity that extends far beyond typical Pinot Blanc aromatics. Initially, umami notes dominate: wine yeast, almonds, a hint of soy sauce and freshly baked baguette with salted butter. These are joined by maritime hints of sea air and crushed shells as well as mineral stone notes. With air contact, subtle fruit nuances of firm pear and melon skin develop. The nose captivates through extraordinary finesse and clarity – an aromatic map of the terroir.

Palate

A remarkable duality characterises the palate: the wine shows itself on the one hand with refreshing, almost cutting vibrancy, yet simultaneously appears creamy and charming. This tension makes it particularly special. The saline notes and pronounced minerality dominate the long, persistent finish. Linear and compact, as McKirdy himself describes it, with a texture reminiscent of iodine and sea freshness.

Finish

Long, saline-mineral and of remarkable precision. The stony minerality lingers for minutes on the palate and underscores the character of this exceptional vineyard site.

Terroir & Origin

The vineyard „Le Jardin de la Source“ lies at 250 metres elevation in a sheltered, east-facing site in Alsace. Almost completely surrounded by trees and hedgerows, it benefits from the morning sun whilst the shadow of the village above protects it from extreme afternoon heat. The deep limestone-marl soils from the early Jurassic and the natural spring define the character of this unique terroir, which served as a vegetable garden until the 1960s.

Grape Variety & Vinification

100% Pinot Blanc from vines over 50 years old – the first planted on this terroir. The wine was vinified at 12% alcohol and displays the restraint and precision typical of Hunter McKirdy’s philosophy.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Thanks to its saline minerality and umami structure, a magnificent companion to oysters, scallops, langoustines and other crustaceans. Also an excellent choice with grilled monkfish, turbot in butter sauce or sushi. Dishes with intense, reduced sauces are perfectly complemented by the wine’s freshness and minerality.

Special Characteristics

A wine that requires time to open up – patience is rewarded with extraordinary complexity. The combination of old vines, sheltered site and unique limestone-marl terroir makes this Pinot Blanc one of Alsace’s most characterful white wines.