Zind-Humbrecht | Alsace | Riesling Roche Calcaire | 2017 | 750ml | bio

Beschreibung

Product description for Zind-Humbrecht Riesling Roche Calcaire 2017 (bio)

Late Release. As the name suggests, this wine is harvested from various limestone vineyards on the estate, the majority of which come from 1.2 hectares of Riesling planted by Oliver’s father around the village of Gueberschwihr. This wine uses several very small vineyards, too small to be vinified separately. Limestone soils ripen less early, have a higher water-holding capacity, and are therefore less susceptible to heat and water stress. These wines are generally reductive, slow-developers with higher acidity levels, requiring more time in bottle to reveal their full potential. The higher acidity and lower pH mean that these Rieslings always ferment very slowly and tend to retain residual sugar, as was the case in the 2017 vintage. Bottling was very late in January 2020.

Wine Info

As the name suggests, this wine is harvested from various limestone vineyards on the estate, the majority of which come from 1.2 hectares of Riesling planted by Oliver’s father around the village of Gueberschwihr. This wine uses various very small vineyards that are too small to be vinified separately. Limestone soils ripen less early, have a higher water-holding capacity, and therefore do not suffer as much from heat and water stress. These wines are generally reductive, slow-developers with higher acidity levels that require more time in bottle to reveal their full potential. The higher acidity and lower pH mean that these Rieslings always ferment very slowly and tend to retain residual sugar, as in the 2017 vintage. Bottling was very late in January 2020.

Colour

Sparkling, intense golden yellow.

Nose

The 2017 Riesling Roche Calcaire is distinctive and terroir-influenced on the nose. Earthy and chalky notes open the palate, accompanied by orange, vineyard peach, honey, and candied ginger. Oriental spices such as cardamom and turmeric, along with tree bark, truffle, and meat jus, characterize the aroma, which reveals delicate hints of maturity.

Palate

Charming with expansive, exotic aromas, fresh pineapple, ginger, and a subtle spiciness that combines with sweetness. A truly exceptional Riesling that, despite its advanced maturity, still appears youthful and still has enormous potential for development. Goes perfectly with dishes with acidity and sweetness; spiciness is also welcome.

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Keywords: Zind-Humbrecht Riesling Roche Calcaire 2017 bio Alsace France

Wine Advocate

Score: 90

From various vineyards with some partly covered in very small limestones around the village of Gueberschwihr, the 2017 Riesling Roche Calcaire Late Release was bottled in January 2020. The nose of this intensely yellow-colored Riesling is accordingly intense and dense, with perfectly ripe fruit aromas intertwined with structural notes, limestone and lemon aromas. Round and lush on the palate, this is a remarkably refined and elegant Riesling with persistently intense and juicy fruit, fine tannins and smooth, refined acidity. Tropical fruit aromas populate the dry and structured finish with its fine tannins. This almost-dry and sensual 2017 drinks beautifully today, even with dishes with cream sauces. Bottled with 12.5% stated alcohol, 14 grams per liter of residual sugar and a natural cork. Tasted in January 2023.
Stephan Reinhardt

Vinous

Score: 92

The 2017 Riesling Roche Calcaire is a very special wine in this range. It emerges from a collection of parcels in the Gueberschwihr that are too small to be vinified on their own. A wine of depth and complexity, the 2017 possesses striking nuance from start to finish. Crushed rocks, dried flowers, citrus confit and a touch of reduction make for a wonderfully complete, alluring Riesling. The aromas and flavors open beautifully with a bit of time in the glass, revealing a wine of real character.
— Antonio Galloni
Drinking window: 2020 – 2029
Review date: Oct 2020

Producer website: http://www.zindhumbrecht.fr/