Pinot Gris Clos Windsbuhl 2022

A dry Pinot Gris of finesse and precision: 13.0% vol., a lively acidity and a saline streak that carry the wine. Quiet yet penetrating at once, mineral and multi-faceted.

Clos Windsbuhl is a historic Alsace vineyard whose history dates back to the 14th century, when it belonged to the Habsburg family. In 1759 the Prince of Württemberg acquired the estate, and even then Pinot Gris was noted here as a fine variety. The geology is low in limestone, the ripening climate late. Domaine Zind-Humbrecht produced its first vintage from the Clos in 1988, which is today its monopole.

Pinot Gris ripens early and is a demanding variety that needs the best vineyard sites; on lighter soils with early sun exposure it yields rich wines. Olivier Humbrecht farms the vines biodynamically, with yields of 30 to 40 hectolitres per hectare. At least six months of lees contact lend texture, and before release each wine ages one to two years in the cellar.

On the nose, lemon, lemon balm, kumquat and young apricot meet fresh apple and quince, with elderflower and ginger floating above. On the palate the lively acidity combines with an intensely saline streak and pale and yellow fruit, the finish lingering long. Decanting beforehand benefits the wine; serve not too cold and in large Burgundy glasses.

Peas, carrots, chicory chutney, herb cream and basil oil in a carrot-kimchi broth with hazelnut-quinoa crunch, scallops with watercress, goat's cheese ravioli and lemon verbena, or Massaman chicken curry with ginger and basmati rice.

The Humbrechts have been winegrowers since 1620. Olivier Humbrecht, the first Frenchman to hold the title Master of Wine, converted the first five hectares to biodynamics in 1996 and now farms 42 hectares; horses once again work the steep vineyards. Since 2019, Pierre Émile Humbrecht has represented the eleventh generation at the estate.