Domaine Zind-Humbrecht : Riesling Grand cru "Brand" Sélection de Grains Nobles 2006

An exceptional Alsace Grand Cru Sélection de Grains Nobles

The estate
Located in the Haut-Rhin, in Alsace, Domaine Zind-Humbrecht is recognised worldwide as one of the "big three of Alsace." The Humbrecht family has been making wine since 1620, but in 1959, following the marriage of Léonard Humbrecht and Geneviève Zind, the estate was renamed Zind-Humbrecht. Since 2009, the property has been run by their son, Olivier, who was the first French Master of Wine and is considered one of the finest winemakers in the world. A pioneer in producing Alsace wines with a concentrated, fruity character through low yields, the estate's viticulture is today governed by the principles of biodynamics.

The vineyard
The family owns 40 hectares of vines planted across various terroirs, where ten different soil types can be identified. Typical Alsace wines thrive on these lands, which allow them to yield the finest cuvées. The estate has been certified organic since 1998 and biodynamic since 2002. Most of the parcels are planted within areas classified as Grand Cru. 

The wine
The Riesling Grand Cru "Brand" Sélection de Grains Nobles 2006 is an exceptional cuvée and one of the rare wines of Zind-Humbrecht. Rieslings in Sélection de Grains Nobles are not produced every year. Since the estate was founded, only three cuvées like this one have ever been crafted. The winegrowers select berries affected by noble rot, or botrytis cinerea, a fungus that dries out the grapes and leaves behind the sugar and aromas they contain, in order to produce a sweet wine. The weather conditions must be just right to produce this extremely rare wine. In 2006, the grapes were beautifully ripe, yields were extremely low and noble rot developed intensely on the berries (up to 80%), which made it possible to craft this remarkable nectar containing 69.5 grams of sugar per litre. The acidity was also high, providing balance to this sweet wine.

The vintage
2006 experienced extreme weather that made it possible to produce distinguished wines with character, truly reflecting the qualities of the terroir. April and May were wet and cool. In June and July, temperatures were higher than the seasonal average, the air was very dry and the vines developed early. However, August was damp with cooler weather than usual, which encouraged high acidity levels. By the end of September, the grapes were riper than the previous year but still retained a lovely acidity. The moisture caused by the rain could have reduced the quality of the wine, but thanks to the meticulous work of the winegrower, the grapes were successfully harvested in October. 

Blend
Riesling

Characteristics and tasting notes of Domaine Zind-Humbrecht: Riesling Grand Cru "Brand" Sélection de Grains Nobles 2006

Tasting

Appearance
This cuvée reveals an intense, deep golden colour.

Nose
The aromatic intensity of this wine takes us on a journey through orchards of white fruits and citrus. Notes of white flowers, honey and linden add a touch of delicacy. 

Palate
Although this wine is sweet, lightness and freshness take centre stage thanks to its lively acidity. 

Food and wine pairings
This wine pairs beautifully with citrus desserts such as lemon tart. 

Ageing potential
Domaine Zind-Humbrecht: Riesling Grand Cru "Brand" Sélection de Grains Nobles 2006 can be cellared until at least 2028 to express its full aromatic range.

Serving
For optimal tasting, serve between 6 and 9°C.