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.

Blanck may be a new name for CellarHand but thats certainly not the case in Alsace. Its getting on for 200 years since the family established a wine business in Kientzheim. For the past 30 years, cousins Frédéric and Philippe Blanck have been in control, placing a sharp focus on the vines and the soil they grow in. Expressions of lemon, blossom, peach and apricot pips with a quench grapefruit zest. Zippy and zesty, The Paul Blanck Pinot Blanc is fresh and well balanced.

Dopff Riesling Grand Cru Schoenenbourg has quite phenomenal citrus notes with a luscious and toasty caramelised honey element. Beautifully balanced acidity and immense length. Sheer indulgence!