Pinot Gris Heimbourg 2018

We bring into focus the Heimbourg vineyard, a jewel of Turckheim's secondary and tertiary quarry area. On this varied piece of land, grapes ripen in a unique way. Heimbourg shines on its loess-limestone soil, perfectly aligned from southwest to west. The counterpart to this terrain is the vineyard's wind-tested summit, a place of preference for Pinot grapes. There their potential unfolds, similar to that of the Rotenberg on the other side of the valley, but the lower iron content produces more aromatic wines that make an impression even when young.

The magic of Heimbourg is evident in the ageing: thanks to the complexity of the noble rot, both dry and sweet wines can be produced here. But it is perfected to achieve full ripeness without over-ripening the grapes, and specifically without botrytis to allow fermentation that is as dry as possible. 2018 was a good year in which the ripeness developed harmoniously, resulting in a solid wine that was bottled dry after 18 months of ageing.

The wine fascinates us with a radiant golden yellow that casts delicate pink reflections. On the nose, the 2018 Pinot Gris Heimbourg has a sublime character in which the chalky minerality predominates and invites decantation. Fruits such as oranges, mango and apricots indulge in a dancing game, enlivened by hints of ginger and orange peel, offering a refreshing and multi-faceted palate.

On the palate, the wine is a juicy delight, enlivened by a fresh kick of acidity and fine tannin structure. The strength of its fruit, coupled with its chalky foundation, makes it simply wonderful in combination with intense dishes. It will reveal its full beauty in the coming years. Therefore, I advise decanting it and enjoying it from large Burgundy glasses.

For accompaniments, I advise pumpkin seed dumplings with poached eggs, a succulent lobster bisque or a lentil curry with braised lamb and roasted chickpeas.