Riesling Grand Cru – Rangen de Thann Clos Saint Urbain – Zind Humbrecht – 2021

The Riesling Clos Saint Urbain from the Zind Humbrecht winery

The Riesling Grand Cru Rangen de Thann Clos Saint Urbain 2021 from the Zind Humbrecht winery is an extraordinary wine produced in a unique terroir in southern Alsace, France. This region is renowned for its steep south-facing vineyards overlooking the Thur River in the village of Thann. The 2021 vintage stands out for its slow fermentation and intense aromatic profile, derived from the sedimentary volcanic soil that characterizes the Grand Cru Rangen.

The Winemaking

The 2021 vintage was marked by a slow ripening of the grapes, allowing them to reach perfect maturity while maintaining pronounced acidity and developing intense volcanic flavors. The roots of the vines, after laboriously penetrating the volcanic soil, have absorbed complex minerals that reflect in the wine. The slow fermentation in oak barrels results in a dry wine, bottled in January 2023.

Tasting the Riesling Grand Cru

In appearance, the wine presents a brilliant pale yellow color. On the nose, it explodes with a classic bouquet of volcanic notes, featuring hints of flint, wet stones, and smoky aromas. On the palate, the wine is elegant and delicate, with a rich mineral presence that adds weight to its fine texture. The aromas of smoke, spices, and herbs integrate perfectly with the hidden tannic structure, supported by vibrant acidity. The finish is dry, with mature acidity that prolongs the flavors without heaviness.

Food Pairings

The Riesling Grand Cru Rangen de Thann Clos Saint Urbain is a wine that lends itself to refined pairings. It pairs beautifully with dishes featuring smoked fish, seafood, and shellfish, thanks to its acidity and mineral aromas. It is also ideal with Asian cuisine, which enhances its spicy and smoky notes. With its elegant profile, it is perfect for accompanying blue cheeses and white meats in creamy sauces. With its aging potential, this wine can further evolve, offering new aromatic nuances in the years to come.

THE AWARDS

2021

– James Suckling 96/100

THE WINERY

The story of the Humbrecht family is a celebration of the passion for viticulture, a love that has been passed down through generations since the 17th century. Founded in 1959, Domaine Zind-Humbrecht is a corner of wine paradise that saw the reins pass from Léonard and Geneviève Humbrecht to Olivier and Margaret in 1989… keep reading