Riesling Clos Häuserer 2018

Wine Description for Riesling Clos Häuserer 2018 from Domaine Zind-Humbrecht

Colour & Appearance

Radiant golden yellow in the glass – a colour that already announces the ripeness and concentration of this extraordinary Riesling.

Nose

Initially closed, this wine only opens after generous aeration. Then a fascinating aromatic spectrum unfolds: limestone notes and dried linden blossoms form the mineral foundation, complemented by chamomile, hay and white pepper. With air contact, dried apricot, fresh pineapple, vineyard peach and even lychee emerge. Exotic spices such as anise, cardamom and ginger lend the bouquet a seductive complexity.

Palate

Surprisingly elegant and fresh, this Riesling presents itself on the palate. Saline notes meet a vibrant acidity that gives the wine structure and tension. The fruit aromatics appear lighter than on the nose: pear, honeydew melon and citrus dominate. Despite its 13% alcohol, the wine feels slender and delicate – a Riesling that convinces through finesse rather than power.

Finish

Long-lasting and mineral with a refreshing acidity that invites the next sip. The saline nuances linger and underscore the vineyard site character.

Terroir & Origin

The Clos Häuserer is a small monopoly vineyard of just 1.2 hectares situated below the Grand Cru Hengst. The deep, calcareous marl soil on Oligocene bedrock warms only slowly and gives the wine its characteristic reductive profile in its youth. The east-facing aspect and high free lime content shape the mineral character of this extraordinary terroir.

Grape Variety & Vinification

100% Riesling from biodynamic viticulture. The high acidity led to a very slow fermentation – the 2018 was the last wine of the vintage to complete fermentation. This patient vinification contributes to its complexity.

Food Pairing Recommendations

Prawn skewers with pomelo-yoghurt sauce, pumpkin gnocchi with fresh rosemary or veal with candied orange slices. Generally, this Riesling harmonises beautifully with dishes that bring freshness and a certain exoticism.

Special Notes

Definitely decant for several hours! This wine requires patience and air to unfold its full potential. With an ageing potential of several decades – the first vintage from 1975 still shows vitality – this is a Riesling for collectors and the patient.