Pinot Gris Roche Volcanique 2022

Wine Description for Pinot Gris Roche Volcanique 2022 by Domaine Zind-Humbrecht

Colour & Appearance

Intense golden yellow with copper-coloured reflections – a visual promise of concentration and maturity that this Pinot Gris from volcanic terroir delivers on.

Nose

A fascinating interplay of fruit and minerality: juicy apples, orange flesh and apricots meet elderflower, rose perfume and fresh ginger. Characteristic is the delicate smoky note that stems from the volcanic soil of the Rangen. With air contact, spicy nuances of anise and cardamom unfold, whilst citrus fruit and grapefruit zest provide a cool, multifaceted freshness.

Palate

Juicy and precise on the attack, with a vibrant acidity that enlivens the palate. Fine bitter notes lend the wine structure and tension, whilst the fruit remains concentrated without feeling heavy. The balance between power and freshness is remarkable – a testament to the younger, yet still averaging 39 years old vines that characterise this wine.

Finish

Long and persistent, with a mineral aftertaste that recalls the dark volcanic sedimentary soils. The appetite-stimulating structure remains present right to the end.

Terroir & Origin

From the legendary Rangen, one of Europe’s steepest vineyard sites with unique volcanic graywacke soils. These dark sediments produce mineral-rich clay soils that give the wine its distinctive smoky signature. The 2022 comes from the younger vines of the vineyard, which Olivier Humbrecht planted between 1978 and 1999.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Pinot Gris in its Alsatian expression – concentrated, yet vinified dry. The prolific 2022 vintage necessitated a selection between old and younger vines. Be sure to decant and serve at not too cold a temperature in large glasses.

Food Pairing Suggestions

An excellent food companion: quiche with green asparagus, prawns with cardamom lentils and spinach or lamb tagine with carrots and preserved lemon. The acidity structure and spicy notes harmonise perfectly with aromatic, even slightly exotic dishes.