This was another of Tannin Pigs contributions to our DC Coast dinner. I was really looking forward to this limited production Alsatian beauty and I was not disappointed. Why anyone would settle for chardonnay when there are wines like this available is beyond me (but I digress).

I have a friend who swears that Z-H is the best white wine producer in the world. It may be difficult to argue with him if all of Z-H's wines are like this. It had a nose typical for Pinot Gris. However, this wine was just coming into its own and was developing deep tropical fruit and mineral notes. Rather reminiscent of top Austrian Gruner Veltliners. Excellent acidity and balance. Long finish. 93 points. One of my top 3 wines of the evening.

VM

[ 09-23-2002, 03:09 PM: Message edited by: Vino Me ]

"Why anyone would settle for chardonnay when there are wines like this available is beyond me." Well said, but I would go even further and insert "California" in front of "chardonnay."

I'm with you on the Zind-Humbrecht Pinot Gris. I've not had the '97 Rangen de Thann Clos St. Urbain, but have enjoyed recently the '98 Herrenweg de Turckheim and '98 Heimbourg. Actually, I've not found a Z-H yet that I didn't like. I'd love to try the '99 Riesling Rangen de Thann Clos St. Urbain I currently have, but want to hold off for at least 2 more years.

Z-H is one of Alsace's top producers, no doubt. The best in the world, hmmm, personally I prefer Domaine Weinbach, and Trimbach is pretty damn impressive.
Have to agree on the Chardonnay comment though.
VM,
Sounds like a wonderful wine, how much do think this retails for?

[ 09-23-2002, 06:32 PM: Message edited by: Jeremy ]

Two words, plain and simple, Zind Humbrecht "KICKS A*S"!! Their 1994 Gewurztraminer Goldert Vendanges Tardives is the highest rated wine ever on the prestigious MBD scale, scoring a "97" last Christmas Eve accompanying the pecan pie!!

Jeremy,

I have not had any Weinbach wines and the only Trimbach wines I have had are some of their basic bottles.

VM

great wine, great vineyard!! (vulcanic soil)

top producer!

Just a comment to show how different boards tend to cater to different tastes. On Robin Garr's board 1 year ago, where Euro whites and Rhones are often discussed, there were a plethora of threads saying how Z-H was the most overrated producer... akin to how this board treats Silver Oak. Food for thought.

Personally, I offer no help with this producer, and my limited experience w wines of this area, but thought the wine was very good.

DrT

The '94 is to die for!!!!!!

Here are my comments from the DC COast & Toast thread. Just for my 2 cents.

Buttery and slightly thick. A hint of sweetness to it too. Coats your mouth. Luscious. I didn’t start my TNs yet when we had this, but I seem to remember pear, flowers and maybe a hint of apple butter.

TJ Rating 90+
I must say I really love wines from Alsace. More and more each day.

VM,
You gotta try Domaine Weinbach, they're outstanding wines although sadly not very cheap. About $45 USD.

Dr T-I read the same thing but I make no apologies for liking Z-H wines. IMO they are like Turley & the St Emilion's Gerard Perse.