Auxerrois Rotenberg 2021 1500ml Magnum

Wine Description for Auxerrois Rotenberg 2021 1500ml Magnum by Domaine Zind-Humbrecht

Colour & Appearance

Radiant, intense golden yellow in the glass – a colour depth that already hints at the concentration and maturity of this extraordinary Auxerrois.

Nose

A fascinating aromatic profile that masterfully unites maturity and freshness: quince, pear and apricot form the fruity foundation. Over this layer roasted almonds, freshly whipped butter and a hint of flint. Exotic nuances of candied ginger and honey evoke freshly toasted baguette with salted butter. A penetrating chalky minerality lends the bouquet impressive depth and complexity.

Palate

Here the Rotenberg reveals its true greatness: cool finesse meets invigorating freshness. The succulent fruit is carried by a fine, present tannin structure – unusual and characterful for a white wine. The wine is mouth-watering, possesses a wonderful drinking flow and simultaneously surprises with a complexity normally reserved for great Burgundies. The tannic texture lends the Auxerrois grip and structure.

Finish

Long, mineral and with lingering freshness. The chalky minerality of the terroir resonates and leaves a saline, appetite-stimulating impression.

Terroir & Origin

The Rotenberg lies on the western slope of the Grand Cru Hengst on sparse, rocky red limestone. This quiet vineyard site opposite a forest was the favourite vineyard of Emile Zind. The oldest vines were planted in the early 1950s. The grapes ripen slowly here and develop extraordinary concentration.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Pure Auxerrois – a grape variety that Zind-Humbrecht normally blends with Pinot Blanc. In 2021, the extraordinary quality justified a separate bottling for the first time. Very low yields, long fermentation and lees ageing resulted in a dry wine with 12.5% alcohol. A bold and entirely successful step by Olivier Humbrecht.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Asparagus with salted butter, pear and sorrel, puff pastry cases with poultry, sweetbreads and mushrooms, pike-perch pan-fried on the skin with shallot-white wine sauce and apricots. The tannin structure also allows pairing with light meat.

Special Features

Vinified separately for the first time – a historic moment for the estate. The magnum bottle promises optimal ageing potential. An Auxerrois that redefines the boundaries of its grape variety.