Zind-Humbrecht - Alsace GC Pinot Gris Rangen de Thann Clos Saint Urbain 2017

Bettane & Desseauve

About wine:

Tasted before bottling. Completely dry (1.6 g/l!), with strong saline power but moderate alcohol content, making it a perfect wine for fine dining. Tannins are present on the finish. It is too young, but it is one of the wines of the vintage. And it will improve in the bottle!

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.

Decanter

About wine:

This large terroir is located in southern Alsace, on complex volcanic soils; the maximum yield is 50 hl/ha. The nose is opulent and exotic, without being overpowering. Full-bodied and fleshy on the palate, it is round and perhaps a little soft. Essentially dry, it has spicy notes and a hint of bitterness that is not unpleasant. It is a wine with great volume that also offers a very long finish.

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

About wine:

Tasted from the sulfurous vat at the end of October 2018, the pure and mineral Alsace Grand Cru Rangen de Thann Pinot Gris Clos Saint Urbain 2017 is rich, intense, and dense on the palate. It is a powerful but balanced Pinot, with fine tannins. Not really smooth, but harmonious and elegant.

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.

Wine Enthusiast

About wine:

A mineral note of reduction still lingers on the nose of this wine. Concentrated and energetic, it is full of verve and urgency. The mid-palate is dominated by phenolic structure and notes reminiscent of apple seeds and almond skins. The finish is dry and intense. This aromatic palette, which continues to unfold, still has much to reveal. Drink between 2025 and 2040.

James Suckling

About wine:

This wine has a fresh and seductive bouquet, with sweet floral aromas and fragrant, ripe notes of lychee, peach, and rose. The palate is very seductive and succulent, with an impressive concentration of lychee. There are also notes of honey and pastry. It is simply magnificent. Full-bodied and delicately sweet. Drink now or cellar.