Domaine Julien Meyer

Nothalten - Alsace

The "Domaine Julien Meyer" is intrinsically linked with the pioneering spirit of Patrick Meyer, the current force behind this historic Alsace estate. While the Domaine bears his father Julien's name, it is Patrick's vision and dedication that have firmly placed it at the forefront of natural winemaking.

Patrick Meyer inherited the vineyards in Nothalten, Alsace, after his father's passing. Initially, following the conventional wisdom of his wine school education, he adopted chemical-intensive farming methods. However, he quickly observed the detrimental impact on vine health and wine quality. This realization sparked a profound shift in his philosophy, leading him back to more traditional, holistic approaches.

By the early 1990s, Patrick fully committed to organic farming, completely eliminating synthetic pesticides, fungicides, and herbicides. This commitment deepened into biodynamic practices by 1999, earning the domaine both Ecocert organic and Demeter biodynamic certifications. His vineyards, spanning approximately 10 hectares at the foot of the Vosges mountains, are a testament to his belief in nurturing a vibrant, living ecosystem. He champions methods like using plant-based teas, minimal soil disturbance, and eschewing heavy machinery to encourage soil vitality and biodiversity.

In the cellar, Meyer's winemaking is a pure expression of minimal intervention. He relies exclusively on indigenous yeasts for fermentation, allows for extended aging on fine lees, and notably, adds little to no sulfur dioxide throughout the winemaking process, often achieving completely sulfur-free wines. He embraces techniques like extended maceration for whites and a careful use of oxygen to create wines of remarkable complexity and amplitude, often showcasing the unique minerality of Alsace's diverse terroirs (including Grand Crus like Muenchberg and the distinctive limestone of Zellberg).

Patrick Meyer is considered a true trailblazer in Alsace, alongside other natural wine luminaries. His wines, which include expressive Sylvaner, aromatic Rieslings, and nuanced Pinot Noirs, are known for their profound authenticity, distinct personality, and energetic character, reflecting his unwavering commitment to crafting living wines that speak directly of their place. His rebellious spirit and passion have made Domaine Julien Meyer a benchmark for natural wine globally.

alsace vinyards