Riesling Heimbourg 2018

Comments on the wine
The Heimbourg, a picturesque, exclusive 9 hectare vineyard, is cleverly situated on a south-west facing slope. This jewel overlooks Turckheim and the Val Müstair, giving it a unique microclimate. Its soil is thin limestone and iron, almost directly on the solitary Oligocen rock, which stands out for its red hue.

The Riesling here was planted about a quarter of a century ago between the Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris varieties. The unique location of this vineyard helps to keep the grapes healthy, despite their proximity to the neighbouring Clos Jebsal. Perfect sunlight accelerates ripening, but with timely and precise harvesting, over-ripening and excessive residual sweetness can be avoided. The 2018 vintage is testimony to optimal ripeness and pronounced acidity.

Optics
It radiates a sparkling golden yellow colour.

Scent
This Riesling exudes a delightful aroma of ripe apples, figs, dried apricots and oranges, complemented by a winged perspective of sprayed flowers and fresh herbs. When a little oxygen is added, spicy and strong mineral aromas are released.

Taste
It presents itself as noble yet invigorating on the palate, with a vibrant acidity, salty nuances and a sophisticated, distinctive spicy aftertaste. The wine's sweet-sour harmony nestles perfectly with matching dishes, but its potential for evolution and ageing should not be underestimated. It will take a few years for this wine to reveal its full profile.

Food recommendation
If you want to enjoy it already now, I recommend decanting it over several hours and serving it in a generous glass. Open it every day and it will unfold its expressive power.

Alternative food recommendation
Sweet potato pancakes with lamb's lettuce, Dorade Royal with citrus-fennel vegetables, duck breast with spiced jus and potato dumplings.