2020 Domaine Zind Humbrecht 'Hengst' Gewurztraminer Alsace
The Hengst Grand Cru, with its 60-year-old vines, enjoys a long-standing reputation for being the place to grow Gewürztraminer. The combination of a high lime content calcareous soil, some marl, a warm and dry setting, but not too precocious, provide the best conditions possible for this difficult grape variety. Zind-Humbrecht’s dedication to terroir expression guides all winemaking practices, which include extended pressing cycles, abbreviated clarification cycles (to retain natural yeasts and proteins in the must), natural malolactic fermentation and extended aging on the lees. The wine is aged 18 months in 40-year-old French barrels.
James Suckling
This gewurz is built on a monumental scale with gigantic concentration and structure, easily filling out the huge body. The abundant fine tannins soak up almost all of the unfermented grape sweetness and drive the very long and texturally complex, spicy finish. Already pretty mind-blowing, but great aging potential! From biodynamically grown grapes. Drinkable now, but best from 2025.