Riesling Clos Häuserer 2022

Wine Description for Riesling Clos Häuserer 2022 from Domaine Zind-Humbrecht

Colour & Appearance

Radiant golden yellow in the glass – a colour that already hints at the concentration and maturity of this exceptional Riesling.

Nose

Slender and playful, this 2022 presents itself with precise aromas of lemon, lime, grapefruit and green apple. Beneath lies a cool, chalky minerality that articulates the terroir unmistakably. After aeration, ginger, anise and notes of dry biscuits unfold, complemented by maritime hints of oyster shells and seaweed – an aromatic complexity that rewards patience.

Palate

Fascinatingly vibrant freshness dominates the palate. The brilliant acidity carries the citrus aromas with playful lightness, whilst a saline note lends the wine additional tension. The juicy backbone runs long through the mouth, fine bitterness balancing perfectly with the saline citrus freshness. At 13.5% alcohol, this Riesling shows power without losing its elegance.

Finish

Long-lasting and appetising. The saline minerality and citrus freshness linger for minutes and practically demand food pairing.

Terroir & Origin

The Clos Häuserer is a 1.2-hectare monopoly situated below the Grand Cru Hengst in Wintzenheim. Planted exclusively with Riesling in 1973 by Léonard Humbrecht, it rests on Oligocene limestone – more precisely on conglomerate limestones cemented in iron-rich sandstone with marl components. These soils impart the wine’s characteristic minerality and drought resistance, whilst the marl-rich topsoil provides roundness and early accessibility.

Food Pairing Suggestions

The saline minerality and brilliant acidity make this Riesling an ideal companion for gratinéed oysters with grapefruit segments, beetroot from a salt crust with aged balsamic or quail breast with rosehip, lemon and tarragon. In general, it harmonises beautifully with dishes that combine fresh components with concentrated sauces.

Special Features

This wine benefits enormously from several hours of decanting and generous glasses. Even better: leave the opened bottle standing for a few days – the wine gains considerably in expression with air contact. A Riesling that demands patience and rewards it generously.