Zind-Humbrecht - Gewurztraminer Rangen de Thann Clos Saint Urbain 2018

Bettane & Desseauve

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:

The 2018 Gewurztraminer Rangen de Thann Clos Saint Urbain combines the purity and unique spicy, mineral, and ethereal character of the vineyard with classic aromas of lychee and rose petals in a deep, intense, and concentrated bouquet. Sumptuous and round on the palate, this is an intense Gewurz with great length and persistence, featuring fine tannins and a dense, complex, salty, and gripping finish. The wine is tight but also charming with its generous fruit and lush elegance. It combines richness, finesse, and vitality, and is an exceptional representative of this unique, timeless, and remarkable grape variety. Although it contains 77.8 grams of residual sugar per liter, it tastes like a moderately sweet wine. Fabulous. Bottled in January 2020 with 13.2% alcohol and a natural cork. Tasted in January 2023.

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.

James Suckling

About wine:

This is an almost overwhelming wine, but not in the usual way that Gewurztraminer does it through the intensity of lychee and spices. It is very smoky, with complex aromas of exotic fruits and notes of wild herbs. The rich caramel and buttery flavors on the palate are beautifully balanced by the salty and smoky character that dominates the long finish. Yes, there is a certain sweetness, but not too much to accompany hard cheeses. Made from biodynamically grown grapes. Drink now or cellar.