Zind-Humbrecht - Gewurztraminer Clos Saint Urbain Rangen de Thann 2013

Bettane & Desseauve

About wine:

A slightly oily texture, with the expected bitterness of rangen, its pleasant aftertaste still needs to mellow, but there's no rush.

About the estate:

For three decades, this estate has been a model for Alsatian viticulture, telling the story of the Humbrecht family. Léonard, the founder, was a visionary who acquired the region's finest terroirs, including the famous Rangen. Olivier, his son, brilliantly introduced the principles of biodynamics in the 1990s. And today, Pierre-Émile, who arrived at the estate during the very complicated 2021 vintage, is continuing their work, particularly on the latest acquisitions on the Sommerberg.

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

About wine:

Golden yellow in color, the 2013 Clos St Urbain Gewürztraminer Grand Cru Rangen de Thann (harvested one day after the Riesling and fermentation stopped with 42 grams of residual sugar at 13.5% alcohol) opens with lime/stony notes, pure - a fresh and very complex bouquet that reminds me more of a natural perfume with aromas of cumin and orange than a wine. Rich and full-bodied, very elegant, spicy and salty on the palate, this full-bodied, structured wine, both firm and stimulating, is a beautiful rarity: only 0.5 of the 5.5 hectares of the Clos are planted with Gewurz (the lower part with volcanic soils and vines averaging 34 years old). The 2013 combines power and concentration with purity, finesse, and vibrant acidity. This is a must-buy for both phenomena: Rangen and Traminer. And shame on you if you drink it too soon!

RVF - La Revue du Vin de France / Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France

About the estate:

A tireless ambassador for his wines and the region, Olivier Humbrecht, the first Frenchman to hold the title of Master of Wine, has long understood the importance of working in the vineyard. He converted the estate to biodynamics in 1999 and is one of its leading advocates, as well as being president of the Biodyvin label. This type of cultivation has enabled him to eliminate botrytis and reduce alcohol levels. The wines have evolved over the years and now have a decidedly dry style, and the large casks age them several meters underground. Like all great Alsace wines, they reach their full potential after a few years or decades of aging. Clos Windsbuhl is a must-try, and Rangen de Thann has established itself over time. Pierre-Emile, Olivier's son, has just joined the estate. The excellence of this production, respected by all, has earned this iconic property a place in our guide's pantheon with a fourth star.

Wine Enthusiast

About wine:

With its strong mineral base, this is a complex and impressive wine. The fruit is very present with lychees, mangoes, and spicy pears, as well as an acidity that gives the wine the momentum it needs. Power and style go hand in hand in this wine. Drink from 2019 onwards.

James Suckling