Riesling Clos Windsbuhl 2015 1500ml Magnum

Wine Description for Riesling Clos Windsbuhl 2015 1500ml Magnum from Domaine Zind-Humbrecht

A monumental Riesling that impressively embodies the extraordinary terroir philosophy of Zind-Humbrecht. The Clos Windsbuhl, situated on ancient sedimentary limestone at the forest’s edge, was harvested in 2015 a full four weeks after the official harvest began – a bold decision to wait that pays dividends in every drop.

Colour & Appearance

Dense, slightly muted golden yellow with impressive depth – visually alone, this wine announces itself as one of substance.

Nose

This Riesling demands patience and oxygen. Initially it appears closed, then a fascinating interplay of aromas unfolds: almonds, light nuts, wine yeast, delicate smoky nuances and pale tobacco dominate. With air contact, pomelo, pink grapefruit and small red apples develop. The overwhelming minerality is breathtaking – less fruit-driven, instead characterised by a complexity reminiscent of great Burgundian white wines.

Palate

Assertive, bone-dry and of crystalline precision. The magnesium-rich limestone soil imparts a characteristic, almost grainy texture and a demanding, saline minerality that immediately stimulates salivation. Nutty and yeasty notes define the attack, accompanied by discreet citrus and apple skin nuances. The acidity structure is lively and precise – this wine has the makings of a wine that will age for decades.

General Information

With 12.5% alcohol and minimal residual sweetness, this Riesling presents itself as an almost Burgundian-style, dry character wine. The magnum bottle guarantees an even slower, more harmonious development. The 2015 vintage from Alsace is considered excellent – concentrated, yet with perfect balance.

Food Pairing Recommendations

The intensity and minerality of this wine demand equally refined dishes: risotto with white truffle, turbot in a fennel coat with Riesling shallot sauce and caviar or young pheasant on savoy cabbage with smoked bacon and Riesling sauce are ideal companions that underscore the wine’s complexity.

Special Features

Decant by all means! This wine requires at least two hours of air contact or – better still – several years of cellar ageing. A Riesling for connoisseurs that deliberately ignores conventional fruit expectations and instead places terroir, structure and ageing potential at the forefront. A spectacular monument to Alsatian winemaking art.