Domaine Trimbach- Alsace Grand Cru Geisberg 2018

The Ribeauvillé winery is slowly evolving to keep pace with the times. After shifting its focus to grand cru wines, Trimbach is in the process of converting to organic farming (certification expected in 2023). This transition will require the involvement of its grape and wine suppliers. Here, Riesling reigns supreme (55% of production). The terroirs are well-suited to this: marl-limestone (Geisberg, Mandelberg, Clos-Saint-Hune in Rosacker) or granite (Schlossberg, Brand). The Frédéric-Émile cuvée blends the Osterberg and Geisberg grands crus. The 2017 and 2019 vintages will go down in history.

With notes of citrus zest and nutmeg, the Geisberg’s aroma is quite vibrant. Its intensity of flavor and smooth finish are impressive.

A must-visit winery that stands proudly in the beautiful town of the minstrels, Trimbach delights wine lovers with its legendary Frédéric-Émile and Clos Sainte-Hune vintages. Across the vintages, Pierre Trimbach crafts Riesling with a vertical approach, always in a dry style. His brother Jean oversees global sales. They are now supported by the next generation: Anne and Frédérique (Pierre’s daughters) and Pauline and Julien (Jean’s children). The family produces wine from nearly 60 hectares of estate-owned vineyards and about 100 hectares of purchased grapes. Certain grand cru wines have been designated as such since 2009 and are directly allocated in small quantities by Jean Trimbach to the world’s finest restaurants. The estate undeniably contributes to the recognition of Alsace wines through its internationally iconic vintages, while also producing entry-level wines of consistent quality. The range of Pinot Noirs still has room for improvement.

For such a hot vintage, this wine has extraordinary vitality and sparkles like a diamond! The full-bodied palate is slightly richer and more compact than the crystal-clear nose would suggest. I love the notes of lemongrass and dried sage, as well as the freshness of lemon zest. An incredibly long and full-bodied finish. Made from organically grown grapes. Ready to drink or worth cellaring.

Produced from a 2.66-hectare vineyard, this Geisberg Grand Cru blends floral, fruity, and mineral notes. No single element dominates, yet each shines. The wine has body and fullness, but also charm, which helps balance the whole. An imposing, inviting, and compelling wine that is already approachable, yet possesses exceptional aging potential. The finish is lingering, perfectly supported by a magnificent bitter structure. 2026–2048