Domaine Ostertag: Pioneering Biodynamic Wines in Alsace
Since 1997, Domaine André Ostertag has been a leader in biodynamic viticulture in Alsace, crafting wines renowned for their concentration, depth, and character. With over 14.4 hectares of vineyards spread across 88 distinct plots, the estate covers 172 cadastral parcels in the villages of Epfig, Nothalten, Itterswiller, Ribeauvillé, and Albé.
André Ostertag, who took over the domaine in 1980, revolutionized the estate by focusing on organic and biodynamic farming. His training in Beaune, Burgundy, and his friendship with Dominique Lafon of Meursault influenced his winemaking philosophy, which emphasizes quality over quantity. Ostertag limits yields to just 50 Hl/ha, far below the neighboring domaines’ average of 120 Hl/ha, ensuring his wines are more concentrated and expressive of terroir.
Non-interventionist Winemaking
At Domaine Ostertag, a non-interventionist approach is key. The Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noir are aged in small Vosges oak barrels, while Sylvaner, Muscat, and Gewurztraminer are fermented in stainless steel vats. All wines are made without filtration, allowing the natural characteristics of the grapes and soils to shine through.
Unique Classification System
Rejecting the rigid classifications of the AOC, André Ostertag developed his own categories for the estate’s wines:
- Vins de Fruit: Focuses on expressing pure fruit character, independent of terroir.
- Vins de Pierre: Reflects the influence of the specific vineyard’s soil and environment.
- Vins de Temps: Relies on time and climatic conditions to encourage botrytis development, creating complex sweet wines.
A New Generation at the Helm
In 2018, André’s son, Arthur Ostertag, took over the estate. Having trained with top domaines such as Comtes Lafon in Meursault, Arthur introduced new techniques while upholding the family’s commitment to biodynamics. His influence can be seen in the 2016 vintages, where he brought fresh perspectives to the estate’s red wines while maintaining the same sensitivity for whites.
Today, Domaine Ostertag continues to produce wines that embody the true spirit of Alsace: deep, complex, and reflective of their unique terroir.
