Description
Historical village practice and contemporary biodynamic farming intersect in the 2021 Vin d’Alsace Rouge St-Hippolyte from Marcel Deiss. Fruit is sourced from slopes surrounding the village of St-Hippolyte, where volcanic subsoils and warm exposures are moderated by cooler air draining through the valley, resulting in uneven but expressive ripening across parcels. Vineyard management emphasizes organic ground cover, precise canopy shaping, and the timed use of biodynamic preparations to maintain soil vitality. Grapes are harvested by hand and handled gently before fermentation with indigenous yeasts in large neutral vessels selected for their ability to maintain steady temperatures. Aging continues in foudres to support gradual structural integration. Within the estate’s portfolio, Rouge St-Hippolyte extends the Marcel Deiss philosophy into red varieties, applying a site driven, field blend approach in a sector of Alsace more commonly associated with white wines.