Zind-Humbrecht - Alsace GC Gewurztraminer Rangen de Thann Clos Saint Urbain 2020

It has a crisp, powerful balance and a full-bodied mouthfeel that accounts for its rich, almost oily texture, with a long, lingering spicy finish.

For three decades, this estate—a model of Alsatian winemaking—has told 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 as early as the 1990s. And today, Pierre-Émile, who joined the estate during the very challenging 2021 vintage, is continuing their legacy, particularly with the latest acquisitions on the Sommerberg.

This Gewürztraminer from Rangen is yet another truly unique wine, with impressive depth of flavor, perfectly dry, and bearing the hallmark of its terroir: its notes of pumice and smoke make it inimitable and glorious.

An tireless ambassador for his wines and the region, Olivier Humbrecht—the first Frenchman to earn the Master of Wine designation—has long understood the importance of work in the vineyard. He converted the estate to biodynamic farming in 1999 and is one of its leading advocates, serving as president of the Biodyvin label. This approach to viticulture has allowed him to avoid botrytis and reduce alcohol levels. The wines have evolved over the years and now exhibit a decidedly dry style, while the large casks age them several meters underground. Like all great Alsatian wines, they reach their full potential after a few years or decades of aging. The Clos Windsbuhl is a must-try, and the Rangen de Thann really comes into its own with age. Pierre-Emile, Olivier’s son, has just joined the estate. The excellence of this production, respected by all, has earned this iconic estate a place in the pantheon of our guide with a fourth star.

Very smoky and mineral, with aromas of lychee, papaya, and star fruit. A very concentrated and silky Gewurz that lacks any of the heaviness or bitterness that wines from this grape variety so easily tend toward. And this, despite an alcohol content of over 15%! In fact, the freshness on the finish reminds me of the best 2016 Gewürztraminers, although here it is paired with greater ripeness. Wonderfully silky, the finish is long. Fermented through November 2021. Made from biodynamically grown grapes. Ready to drink now or for aging.