Eau de Vie de Vin 1996 500ml

Wine Description for Eau de Vie de Vin 1996 500ml by Domaine Zind-Humbrecht

Character

This rarity is not a wine in the classical sense, but rather a brandy – an eau de vie made from distilled wine. With 62% alcohol content, this 1996 vintage represents the artisanal mastery of Domaine Zind-Humbrecht, which extends far beyond their world-renowned wines. The lengthy maturation since the mid-1990s has endowed this distillate with extraordinary complexity and finesse, typical of high-quality eau de vie from Alsace.

Terroir & Origin

Alsace is renowned not only for its Grand Cru wines but also maintains a centuries-old tradition of distillation. Domaine Zind-Humbrecht, established in Turckheim for generations and a leader in biodynamic viticulture, brings the same philosophy to their distillates: respect for the raw material and uncompromising quality. The mineral-rich soils of Alsace – ranging from limestone through granite to volcanic stone – also characterise the base wines for these distillates.

Grape Variety & Vinification

The exact grape composition is not specified, though Zind-Humbrecht traditionally uses high-quality base wines from their own estate for their eaux de vie. Distillation takes place in small batches, with only the heart of the distillate being used. Subsequent maturation over more than two decades in neutral containers preserves the purity and clarity of the distillate, whilst the aromas harmonise and refine.

Food Pairing Suggestions

As a high-proof distillate, this eau de vie is excellent served as a digestif after an opulent meal. In classic Alsatian fashion, it pairs beautifully with dark chocolate or nut pastries. In fine dining establishments, it is also served alongside blue cheese or robust hard cheeses. Alternatively, it can serve as the base for exceptional cocktails or simply be enjoyed neat at room temperature in small sips.