Meet the Maker: Jean-Frédéric Hugel, Famille Hugel
384 CONSECUTIVE VINTAGES – YOU HAFTA START SOMEWHERE!
Winemaking runs deep in the Hugel family – to the extent that “Alsace” and “Hugel” are practically interchangeable.
In 1639, the Hugel family settled in the quaint, small town of Riquewihr, Alsace, laying down the roots for what would become a winemaking legacy that spans over 300 years. Today, under the stewardship of Jean-Frederic Hugel, the 13th generation of the family, Famille Hugel continues to honour tradition, embody true craftsmanship, and embrace innovation, all of which have defined their wines for centuries.
Being one of leading wine producing families in Alsace, Famille Hugel has played a pivotal role in shaping the development of this winegrowing region, influencing the winemaking traditions and legislation. They pioneered and informed the laws around the late harvest wines of Alsace, Vendange Tardive and Sélection de Grains Nobles. They also revitalised the ‘Gentil,’ a classic blend of the Alsace noble grapes, Gewurztraminer, Riesling, Pinot Gris, Muscat and Pinot Blanc - a style we absolutely love for its balance, harmony, and elegance.
The family has maintained their 30 hectare estate, where they exclusively grow the 4 Alsace noble grapes and mostly produce wines classified as Grand Cru. They also source an additional 100 hectares from select grape growers in the region who exhibit their distinct terroir. Whether they are producing wines from the noble grapes or others that thrive in their region, the Hugel family magnificently captures pure varietal character and their unique terroir in every single bottle.
Discover Famille Hugel's rich legacy in Alsace as we delve into an interview with the ever-so-bubbly and vibrant Jean-Frederic Hugel!
Get the wines:
FAMILLE HUGEL, HUGEL GENTIL - 2020
FAMILLE HUGEL, GROSSI LAUE PINOT NOIR - 2012
FAMILLE HUGEL, VENDANGE TARDIVE GEWÜRZTRAMINER (375ML) - 2014