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 of 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. His son, Olivier, 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, continues their legacy, particularly with the latest acquisitions on the Sommerberg.

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

About the wine:

The Rangen trilogy borders on the sublime: the Riesling is almost hypnotic in its aromatic intensity, velvety in its ripe fruit, and smooth and caressing on the finish.

About the estate:

An tireless ambassador for his wines and the region, Olivier Humbrecht—the first Frenchman to earn the title of Master of Wine—has long understood the importance of vineyard work. 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 has allowed him to avoid botrytis and reduce alcohol levels. The wines have evolved over the years and now exhibit a decidedly dry style, with the large casks aging them several meters underground. Like all great Alsace 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 grows in prominence with time. Pierre-Emile, Olivier’s son, has just joined the estate. The excellence of this production, respected by all, allows this iconic property to enter the pantheon of our guide with a fourth star.

Vinous

About the wine:

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

James Suckling

About the wine:

A tremendous concentration, elegance, and finesse. The smoky character hovers like a cloud above the dark, deep waters of this unique wine. The spicy notes are so delicate and captivating, 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 enjoyed now, but will reach its peak starting in 2026.