Riesling Rangen “Clos Saint Urbain” Grand Cru 2018
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France / Alsace
The Riesling vines are spread all over the 5.5ha of the Clos-Saint-Urbain in the Rangen Grand Cru vineyard. Being located at the opening of a cold and higher altitude valley, the Rangen enjoys a late ripening climate, but eventually catches up in October, when the steep slope (90%) and dark warm volcanic rocks allow the grapes to reach a high ripeness level. 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.
97 Points
Wine Enthusiast
2018 vintage
92 Points
VinousMedia.com
2018 vintage
Harvest Note
The weather patterns were unusual yet resulted in a fine high-quality crop in most locations. The winter was extremely cold, and total rainfall for January through July was more than twice the normal amount. This replenished the soil moisture while the vines growth cycle was largely undisturbed. The summer months brought more stable, warm and dry conditions. Harvest proceeded over a two-month period, which allowed a precise approach to each terroir.
Tasting Note
Intensly flinty and slightly herbal aromas lead to an expansive and powerful sensation on the palate.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 100% Riesling
APPELLATION: Alsace Grand Cru
PH: 3.14
ACIDITY: 3.83 g/l
ABV: 13.5%
AGING: In neutral wood cask
MALOLACTIC FERMENTATION: Yes
RESIDUAL SUGAR: 2.2 g/L
Unique Selling Points
- The Rangen Grand Cru is noted as far back as the 12th century
- This is the southernmost vineyard of Alsace and among the steepest
- Rangen is unique for its volcanic subsoils and high altitude cooler temperatures
- Vines here are slow to ripen and often the last harvested
Good wine is made by people who actually do everything they say they are doing.
Olivier Humbrecht MW, Winemaker
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.
