Domaine Zind-HumbrechtPinot Gris Clos Windsbuhl Sélection de Grans Noble 2010

"This lip-smacking version presents a refined tapestry, with layers of tangerine, mango puree, apricot pie and toasty praline flavors, offset by a rich vein of smoky mineral and intriguing accents of fleur de sel, shredded coconut and candied ginger. Shows harmonious integration of the laserlike acidity. Drink now through 2050."

The Zind-Humbrecht 2010 Pinot Gris Clos Windsbuhl Selection de Grains Nobles – which had not been bottled as of late 2013 – slowly and barely made it to 7% alcohol, but the estate’s vintage collection – not to mention any who eventually get to taste it – will have been greatly enriched by its having managed to officially become wine. A haunting nose of narcissus, chamomile, rowan, heliotrope and mint further hints at the pear drops, maraschino liqueur, honey and maple syrup, that thereafter viscously and lingeringly coat the palate. Hints of pear pip and toasted nut piquancy along with shimmeringly stony impingements and yeasty notes that may well dissipate before bottling, serve as a welcome not to mention fascinating counterpoint. The reprise of liquefied, mysteriously complex floral essences wafts past the point where the urge to take the next sip becomes irresistible. Olivier Humbrecht points out that this elixir’s concentration of acidity – as well as minerality – go significantly beyond what he has ever before witnessed from Pinot Gris at the hands of extreme botrytis and calcareous soil. Expect 3-4 decades of delight.