Riesling "Heimbourg' Domaine Zind-Humbrecht, Turkheim 2020

Domaine Zind-Humbrecht, Turkheim (Biodynamic)

The Humbrecht family can trace their winemaking heritage back over 10 generations, although the Domaine Zind Humbrecht story really began in 1959 through the amalgamation of the Zind and Humbrecht family vineyards. Under the stewardship of first Léonard Humbrecht and then his son Olivier, the domain has grown to around 40 hectares, including some of the very best parcels in Alsace’s top Grand Cru and Lieu-Dit sites. Taking a non-interventionist approach in the cellar and paying incredible attention to detail in the biodynamic management of his vineyards, Olivier is leading the field in crafting superb terroir-driven wines.

Formerly named Pinot d’Alsace, which in the Alsace tradition indicates a blend of Auxerrois and Pinot-Blanc grapes, this wine originates from the Rotenberg vineyard in Wintzenheim and Herrenweg in Turckheim. In 2015, the proportion of Pinot Blanc was probably slightly higher than Auxerrois. The latter being slightly less productive as it suffers more from sunburn. The red limestone of the Rotenberg, benefiting from a much cooler exposition (north-west) and higher altitude, yielded the bulk of this wine, which also explains the slightly lower yields obtained in 2015. The Herrenweg grapes were in comparison much smaller and there was also more coulure due to the heat during flowering. Without doubt this changed slightly the style of the wine and explains the great structure for such a hot vintage. Medium slow fermentation (6 months) but the wines fermented bone dry.

The nose shows a delicate combination of citrus fruit aromas and dry herbs. There is a definite influence from the limestone on this wine, keeping it restraint and discreet in its early days, a character which is enhanced by the long full lees contact until bottling. The palate shows a bright intensity, a vivacious and sapid acidity and fine texture. It feels in harmony and the finish is delicate and inviting yet dry and racy.

Grape: 100% Riesling

Biodynamic