Zind-Humbrecht - Alsace GC Riesling 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 is sublime: the Riesling is almost hypnotic in its aromatic intensity, smooth in its fruit ripeness, and soothing and caressing on the finish.

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 Riesling Rangen de Thann Clos Saint Urbain Grand Cru 2023 comes from this steep and iconic site located in the extreme south of Alsace. On the nose, smoky notes mingle with green citrus aromas that are aromatic, lively, seductive, and exhilarating. The palate is pure, crystalline, chiseled, uncompromising, and precise. Long, omnipresent, and energetic, it retains that magnificent smoky note throughout. If you can imagine drinking stone, this is exactly what it is like, but with a fluid charm. (Very dry)

James Suckling

About wine:

A tremendous concentration, elegance, and finesse. The smoky character floats like a cloud above the dark, deep waters of this unique wine. The spicy notes are so delicate and fascinating, and although the texture is extremely silky, the dark minerality gives this wine an almost supernatural intensity on the finish. Made from biodynamically grown grapes. Can be drunk now, but will be at its peak from 2026 onwards.