From: Niedermorschwihr, Alsace, France
Varietal: Riesling
Tasting Notes: This dry Riesling showcases texture and terroir above all else, with the granite slopes imparting a distinctive minerality that complements with cooling citrus and crunchy pear notes. The aromas of exotic flowers, key lime, stone, and spice capture the essence of Alsace, delivering finesse, precision, and intricate layers of flavor. The nose offers a complex bouquet of lifted yellow florals, citrus fruit pith, and a touch of spice, giving way to a comparable palate. Despite the nose's intensity, the palate surprises with its finesse and mineral purity, reflecting the remarkable complexity of this young Riesling.
Pairing: Traditional Alsace dishes like Choucroute Garnie (a hearty dish of sauerkraut and sausages) and Tarte Flambée (a thin, crispy flatbread topped with cream, onions, and bacon) are classic pairings that highlight the wine’s acidity and minerality. Coq au Riesling, a rich chicken stew cooked in Riesling wine, also complements the wine’s complex flavors. For seafood lovers, Moules Marinières (mussels cooked in white wine) and Trout Almondine (trout with almonds and brown butter) bring out the Riesling’s bright citrus notes.
For an Asian twist, try pairing the Riesling with Thai green curry or Vietnamese spring rolls—the wine’s crisp acidity and subtle sweetness balance the spice and freshness of these dishes. Additionally, a Szechuan stir-fried shrimp dish works well, as the wine's minerality and citrus elements complement the bold, spicy flavors.
Moules Marinières
By Florence Fabricant
About. In the heart of the Alsace region, the Albert Boxler winery is a beacon of tradition, quality, and exceptional craftsmanship. With a history that dates back to the 17th century, this family-owned estate has evolved into one of the most revered wine producers in the region, known for its dedication to terroir-driven wines that reflect the unique character of Alsace.
The roots of the Boxler family in Alsace trace back to 1673, when Jean Boxler first settled in the village of Niedermorschwihr. The village, known for its steep, terraced vineyards, provided the perfect environment for viticulture. However, it wasn’t until 1946, after the ravages of World War II, that the modern iteration of the winery began to take shape under the guidance of Albert Boxler. Returning from the war, Albert took the reins of the family estate with a vision to produce wines that would capture the essence of their unique terroir.
Albert Boxler's dedication to quality and tradition laid the foundation for the winery's future as a producer of some of the most distinguished wines in Alsace. His commitment to meticulous vineyard management and careful vinification set the standard for future generations.
The Albert Boxler estate is located in Niedermorschwihr, a small village in the Haut- Rhin department of Alsace. This region is renowned for its diverse soils and microclimates, which contribute to the distinctive characteristics of Alsace wines. The village’s vineyards and those in neighboring Turckheim are perched on steep slopes, with altitudes ranging from 300 to 400 meters above sea level, providing excellent sun exposure and drainage.
The estate’s vineyards are spread across several of Alsace's most esteemed Grand Cru sites, including Sommerberg and Brand. These vineyards are characterized by granite
soils, which lend a mineral complexity to the wines. The unique terroir, combined with the region's cool continental climate, allows for the slow ripening of grapes, resulting in exceptional balance, structure, and longevity.
Today, the Albert Boxler winery is run by Albert's grandson, Jean Boxler, who continues the family tradition of producing wines that are a true expression of their origin. Jean, who joined the family business in 1996, has brought a modern sensibility to the estate while maintaining the time-honored practices that have defined the winery for generations.
Under Jean’s stewardship, the estate has expanded its vineyard holdings and continues to focus on low-intervention winemaking. The grapes are hand-harvested, and the wines are fermented with indigenous yeasts, reflecting the Boxler philosophy that great wine is made in the vineyard, not the cellar. Jean Boxler's approach is minimalism, allowing the natural character of the grapes and the terroir to shine through in every bottle.
Albert Boxler's philosophy is rooted in respect for the land and the pursuit of excellence. The winery's approach to viticulture and winemaking is one of reverence for nature, focusing on sustainable practices that preserve the health of the vineyards for future generations. Jean Boxler believes that each vineyard has its voice, and his role as a winemaker is to capture that voice and translate it into the glass.
