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

Bettane & Desseauve

About the wine:

Tasted before release. Completely dry (1.6 g/L!), with intense minerality but restrained alcohol, making it a perfect wine for fine dining; tannins are present on the finish. It’s still too young, but it’s one of the standout wines of the vintage. And it will continue to improve with age!

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.

Decanter

About the wine:

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

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

About the wine:

Tasted directly from the fermentation tank in late October 2018, the pure and mineral-driven 2017 Alsace Grand Cru Rangen de Thann Pinot Gris Clos Saint Urbain is rich, intense, and dense on the palate. It is a powerful yet balanced Pinot Gris with fine tannins. Not particularly creamy, but harmonious and elegant.

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

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.

Wine Enthusiast

About the wine:

A hint of reductive minerality 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 skin. The finish is dry and intense. This aromatic profile, which continues to unfold, still has much to reveal. Best enjoyed between 2025 and 2040.

James Suckling

About the wine:

This wine has a fresh, alluring bouquet, with sweet floral aromas and fragrant, ripe notes of lychee, peach, and rose. On the palate, it is incredibly appealing and luscious, with an impressive concentration of lychee. There are also hints of honey and pastry. It is simply magnificent—full-bodied and delicately sweet. Enjoy now or lay it down for the future.