Zind-Humbrecht - Alsace GC Pinot Gris Rangen de Thann Clos Saint Urbain 2023

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.

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

About wine:

The Rangen trilogy borders on the sublime: [...] The masterful Pinot Gris is enveloping and smoky, with restrained power and an inner volcanic fire: in our opinion, the greatest Alsatian expression of this grape variety.

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.

Vinous

About wine:

The Pinot Gris Rangen de Thann Clos Saint Urbain Grand Cru 2023 has a vibrant, reduced nose with a delicious mineral scent of nettle. It is magnificent. When aerated, it reveals an aroma of ripe pear, but everything remains imbued with this lively freshness. The palate is omnipresent, lively, refined, and incisive, totally different from any other Pinot Gris. It has a beautiful cut, minerality, verve, and immense energy, with a long and decidedly citrusy finish. The 2023 is incredible. (Very dry)

James Suckling

About wine:

The striking concentration, smoky notes, and mineral energy of this unique dry Pinot Gris defy categorization. It is certainly not full-bodied, but how could it be described as medium-bodied with such intensity of expression? Despite its power, it rises almost weightlessly toward the heavens and carries you with it. Made from biodynamically grown grapes. It can be drunk now, but will be at its peak from 2027 onwards.