Chardonnay Auxerrois ZIND 2019

Clos Windsbuhl was acquired from Domaine Zind-Humbrecht at the end of 1987. We quickly realised that some parts had to be replanted, either to choose a more suitable grape variety/rootstock combination and/or to change the planting density. The part of the Clos closest to the forest needed to be replanted. When weighing up the options, we decided to choose slightly earlier ripening varieties to compensate for the cooling effect of the nearby forest. Instead of planting the classic Auxerrois/Pinot-Blanc combination, we replaced the latter with Chardonnay.

Unfortunately, Chardonnay is not allowed for still wines in Alsace, so we have to declassify this wine every year in the Vin de France. Chardonnay belongs to the Pinot family, but can produce lower yields than Pinot Blanc and retain a nice acidity on the limestone geology of the Windsbuhl. In 2019, the production was actually quite small, so we also added a small percentage of Pinot Gris to the blend, which was fermented bone dry.

Brilliant golden yellow with delicate green reflections.

Limey notes, a hint of matchstick are the first things you notice when smelling into the 2019 Zind. After decanting into the carafe, it shows citrus and grapefruit notes, tangerine zest and a hint of white bread crust, aniseed, fennel and liquorice. It is still at the beginning of its evolution and shows all the more beautifully when opened after a day in the fridge.

On the tongue, it surprises with juiciness and exoticism. Clear passion fruit notes, juicy pineapple and again citrus and grapefruit, combined with a salty trace and extremely stimulating acidity. An incredibly invigorating representative of its kind and a wine that can be wonderfully versatile when combined with a wide variety of dishes. Tight and dry, it will remain in extremely positive memory!