2011 Domaine Zind-Humbrecht Calcaire Riesling, Alsace

Zind-Humbrecht’s 2011 Riesling Calcaire would until this vintage have been known as Riesling Gueberschwihr. But while it might not be allowed to name its place of origin, it’s certainly proclaimed beautifully from the glass! An irresistibly perfumed nose of honeysuckle, rowan, and almond extract hints also at the fresh lime and white peach that form the fundament of an infectiously juicy palate transparent to chalky and crystalline as well as floral nuances. Finishing with lift and delicacy (despite 13.7% alcohol) yet inexorable penetration, this totally dry beauty delivers mouth-watering salinity, peach kernel piquancy, and an invigoratingly sizzling suggestion of musky rose radish. The bright energy and pronounced mineral character on exhibit here, while unusual for the vintage, are characteristic for the influence of Gueberschwihr’s soils, elevation, and exposures. Should delight through at least 2024.