The altitude of the vineyard coupled with Hunawihr’s delayed climate means that the Clos Windsbuhl is often one of the last estate vineyards to be harvested. This explains the aromatic quality of the Clos’ wines and the consistent balance of acidity, a guarantee of good aging. Zind-Humbrecht’s dedication to terroir expression guides all winemaking practices, which include extended pressing cycles, abbreviated clarification cycles (to retain natural yeasts and proteins in the must), natural malolactic fermentation and extended aging on the lees. The wine is aged 18 months in 40-year-old French barrels.

Tasting Note

Refined, mineral nose that opens up to display vibrant citrus and white fruits. The palate has a smooth, delicate, mineral structure but quickly firms up around the acidity. Beautiful ripe, integrated acidity.

Food Pairing

Seafood, shellfish, pork chops, goat cheese or sushi.

Technical Data
GRAPES: 100% Riesling
APPELLATION: Hunawihr
AGING: 18 months in 40-year-old French barrels
Unique Selling Points
  • Certified Organic and Biodynamic
  • Cooler site with limestone subsoils produces very fine and precise wines
  • Unbroken winemaking lineage in Alsace since 1620
  • 95 points Vinous, 95 points Suckling

Vineyard Details

Clos Windsbuhl
Domaine Zind-Humbrecht's Clos Windsbuhl Vineyard faces south to south-east. With its average to steep slope (between 15 and 40%), the small Windsbuhl hill is at a high altitude for Alsace (around 350 m). The vines grow in a limestone substrata dense with shells (muschelkalk) and rich in clays and chalky rock. The soil is very thin in certain areas and the country rock often outcrops in the middle of the slope. It is well worth noting that the Windsbuhl Vineyard lies on a soil structure quite different from the rest of the commune. The altitude of the vineyard coupled with Hunawihr’s tardy climate means that the Clos Windsbuhl is often one of the last of our domaine’s vineyards to be harvested. This explains the aromatic quality of the Clos’ wines and the consistent balance of acidity, a guarantee of good aging. Although often harvested late, Windsbuhl Vineyard grapes are only rarely botryitized, doubtless due to the altitude of the vineyard, but nevertheless often reach high levels of maturity.

About the Grape

Riesling
Riesling shows sublime, refined, vibrant aromas and flavors of peaches, apricots and white fruit, with floral and citrus blossom notes. May show slate, earth, tar, smoke or kerosene notes.
On-Line Assistant
Ask the Expert
We look forward to hearing from you! Please choose a subject from the options below and let us know your name and email address before adding your message.