Domaine Zind-Humbrecht : Riesling Grand cru "Brand" Sélection de Grains Nobles 2006

An exceptional Grand Cru Sélection de Grains Nobles d'Alsace

The estate

Located in the Haut-Rhin region of Alsace, the Zind-Humbrecht estate is recognised worldwide as one of the "3 great Alsace wines." The Humbrecht family has been making wine since 1620 but in 1959, following the marriage of Léonard Humbrecht and Geneviève Zind, the estate changed its name to Zind-Humbrecht. Since 2009, the estate has been run by their son, Olivier, who was the first French "master of wine" and considered to be one of the best winemakers in the world. A pioneer in producing Alsace wines with a concentrated and fruity character, through low yields, the estate follows biodynamic practices in its vine cultivation.

The vineyard

The family owns 40 hectares of vines planted on different terroirs distinguished by ten different types of soil. Typical Alsatian wines flourish on these soils which bring out the best in them. Since 1998 the estate has been certified in organic agriculture and, since 2002, biodynamic agriculture. Most of the plots are planted in delineated Grand Cru areas.

The wine

The Riesling Grand Cru "Brand" Sélection de Grains Nobles 2006 is an exceptional cuvée belonging to the rare wines of Zind Humbrecht. Rieslings in Sélection de Grains Nobles are not produced every year. Since the creation of the estate, only 3 cuvées like this one have been produced. The winemakers select grapes affected by noble rot, or botrytis cinerea, a fungus that dries out the berries, leaving the sugar and scents, to make a sweet wine. The weather conditions must be right to produce this rare wine. In 2006, the grapes were very ripe, yields were extremely low and the noble rot was intensely concentrated on the berries (80%), resulting in this amazing nectar containing 69.5 grams of sugar per litre. In addition, the acidity was high, allowing this sweet wine to be balanced.

The vintage

The year 2006 was subject to extreme weather conditions which allowed the production of distinguished wines with character, representing the characteristics of the terroir. April and May were rainy and cool. In June and July the temperatures were higher than normal for the season, the air was very dry and the vines developed early. However, August was wet and cooler than usual, advancing a high acidity. At the end of September, the grapes were riper than they had been at that time the previous year but still had good acidity. The humidity caused by the rain could have reduced the quality of the wine, but thanks to the meticulous work of the winemakers, the grapes could be harvested in October.

Blend

Riesling

Characteristics and tasting tips for Domaine Zind-Humbrecht : Riesling Grand cru "Brand" Sélection de Grains Nobles 2006

Tasting

Colour
This wine has an intense dark gold colour.

Nose
The aromatic intensity of this wine takes us on a journey to orchards of white blossom and citrus fruit. White flower notes, of honey and lime blossom, bring a delicate touch.

Palate
Though this is a sweet wine, the lightness and freshness prevail thanks to the acidity.

Food and wine pairing

This wine can pair with citrus fruit-based desserts, such as lemon tart.

Storage

This Domaine Zind-Humbrecht : Riesling Grand cru "Brand" Sélection de Grains Nobles 2006 can be laid down until 2028 to express all of its aromatic palette.

To serve

For the best tasting, serve between 6 and 9°C.