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.
The "golden rule" of the company
"The wine is already in the grape". As soon as they arrive at the "Hugel" premises in the heart of Riquewihr, the grapes are classified according to precise and strict criteria of quality.
The presses are filled by gravity, not by pumping.
After slow crushing, only the first part of the juice is conserved to merit the famous yellow label. The individuality of each grape variety and of each level of quality is respected. Certain vintages, judged insufficiently distinguished, are partly or wholly eliminated and sold off in bulk to other growers.
Some of you have met Etienne at more than one of our winemaker dinners. Some of you have made the trip and took advantage of the Hugel hospitality in Alsace. We are proud to offer their wines and honored by the relationship that we have forged over the years with this great producer of iconic wine.
Please join us this Friday - Etienne will join us via Skype and we will be joined here in the store by representatives of World Wide Wines. We hope to see you there.
Valentine truffles to arrive. 
