Pinot Noir Heimbourg 2022 Zind Humbrecht | Alsace

On the heights of Turckheim, Domaine Zind-Humbrecht 's Pinot Noir Heimbourg comes from a tiny 0.32-hectare parcel, the source of this unique red wine within the wine estate. Situated on the western slope of a steep hillside, Heimbourg lies on an Oligocene marl-limestone bedrock mixed with sandstone and oolitic limestone, rich in iron oxides that tint the soil and influence the grape's slow ripening. Planted in 1995 at very high density and biodynamically farmed practically from day one, the vines of the 2022 vintage produce small, healthy bunches of grapes at optimum ripeness. The whole-bunch, hand-stemmed harvest, natural fermentation in vats and ageing in old oak barrels of 2 to 4 wines, without fining or filtration, make up a precise and serene interpretation of this limestone terroir of Alsace.

Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin : Domaine Zind Humbrecht 's Pinot Noir Heimbourg belongs to that family of reds structured by finesse rather than power. The slope, the limestone and the controlled ripeness produce a wine whose elegance is enhanced by a clear definition of fruit and a supple tannic texture. This is Heimbourg 's way of combining depth and lightness, in a balance that evokes precision rather than demonstration, and promises a fine evolution in the cellar.

The nose opens with delicate red fruits, carried by a pure, fresh expression that slowly opens up to the air. More complex nuances then appear, suggesting a gradual evolution towards floral touches and a slightly earthy, spicy background, without dulling the overall limpidity.

The palate is slender and powerful. Harmonious acidity underpins ripe, silky tannins, while the limestone grain lends a discreet relief to the structure. This wine exudes real energy, pleasantly prolonging the aromas of red berries and noble spices. The finish has a fresh, mineral vibrancy, with a brilliance that brings out the finesse of Heimbourg Pinot Noir, in a style destined to develop further over the years.