2023 Zind Humbrecht - Riesling Turckheim (750ml)
Domaine Zind-Humbrecht was founded in 1959 and today farms 40 hectares of vines across an array of terroirs in Alsace. Entirely certified organic and biodynamic since 1998, the domaine produces wines exclusively from its own vineyards. The estate is led by Olivier Humbrecht, the first French Master of Wine, whose philosophy emphasizes minimal intervention and pure expression of terroir.
The Riesling Turckheim is sourced from the Herrenweg sector of Turckheim, situated between the wine-growing communities of Wintzenheim and Turckheim at the entrance to the Munster Valley, from vines over 35 years old planted on gravelly soils. The pebbles of this valley floor warm up quickly in springtime and the area benefits from good sun exposure while remaining sheltered from northern winds. Grapes are hand-harvested, gently whole-cluster pressed, and fermented spontaneously with native yeasts in large old oak foudres, where fermentations can last for months at natural cellar temperatures. The wine then ages on its full lees in the same casks for 12 to 18 months without fining or chaptalization, and with only minimal sulfur additions before bottling.
The 2023 vintage carries particular interest at this estate. Because 2023 yielded a very small Riesling harvest in this area, this wine combines the Turckheim vines with much older vines typically intended for the Roche Roulée cuvée. The dry summer resulted in very small berries with a high skin-to-juice ratio, lending an intensified aromatic profile to the wine. The 2023 wines show beautiful aromatic expression and a ripe mouthfeel without excessive weight, with harmonious balance and a lower alcohol level than most recent years.
In the glass, this Riesling Turckheim reveals a clear, brilliant pale yellow color with an expressive aromatic profile featuring ripe citrus, bergamot, and peach. The palate entry is sleek and elegant, with vibrant fruit notes backed by sweet earth and moss, a hallmark of classic Alsace Riesling. It is versatile at the table, pairing beautifully with grilled or roasted root vegetables, sushi, sautéed chicken, or composed salads, and is approachable now while having the structure to develop for several years.