Wine Advisor
Trimbach, Riesling Clos Ste Hune 2008
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Description
The wine-growing history of Maison Trimbach dates back to 1626. Since then, twelve generations of winemakers have tirelessly drawn on their passion for Alsace wines, ensuring the wines they produce stand out for their quality and authenticity, patiently establishing, from father to son, a solid reputation for excellence. Trimbach wine acquired true international acclaim in 1898 when Frédéric Emile Trimbach received the highest distinction at the International Wine Fair in Brussels. This success is due in no small part to the jewel in the estate’s crown, the "Clos Sainte Hune" vineyard. Today, the family vineyard is run by Hubert Trimbach, his nephews Jean and Pierre, and Pierre’s daughter Anne, the oldest member of the 13th generation. Their enthusiasm and ambition keep the family’s tradition, rigor and know-how alive, bringing their wines to the very peak of perfection. Pierre has been in charge of the technical side and vinifications when Jean and Anne are traveling all around the world. Julien, Jean’s son, just joined the Family to work closely with Pierre in the cellar. This unrivaled expertise makes the “Trimbach style” a reference for Alsace wines across the world.
Tasting notes
Reviewed by: Ian d'Agata
Pale yellow-green. Vibrant aromas of mirabelle, lemon, crushed stone and fresh herbs, with a nuance of Chablis-like oyster shell. Densely packed and youthfully closed, even austere, but hints at lovely high notes of jasmine, lemon verbena and lichee. Wonderfully stylish and intense in the mouth, closing long and precise, with orange zest, mineral and spice notes. This will evolve gracefully for a long time.
Reviewed by: Stephen Tanzer
Bright pale yellow with a green tinge. Wonderfully subtle nose hints at lime oil, quinine, white flowers and crushed stone; an essence of the calcaire�-rich grand cru Rosacker. Densely packed and tightly coiled, with superb cut and penetrating character but at the same time an ineffable delicacy. Bracing acidity gives the finish outstanding energy and lift. As insinuating on the back end as it is on the nose, showing building flavors of crushed stone, oyster shell and ginger. An infant with 25 years of life ahead of it. (Unfortunately, my sample of the Frederic Emile was corked.)
About the Producer
Since 1626, the Trimbach family has been promoting the history, exceptional terroirs and fine wines of Alsace. Maison Trimbach is located in Ribeauvillé, where today three generations work closely together. Day-to-day operations are handled personally by brothers Pierre and Jean Trimbach, representing the 12th generation. Bernard and Hubert Trimbach, the 11th generation (father and uncle, respectively, to Pierre and Jean) remain integrally involved. Anne, the eldest of the 13th generation, has just joined the family business. The Trimbachs have a purist vision. Across 12 generations, the family has always produced wines that are structured, long-lived, fruity, elegant and balanced: the celebrated Trimbach style. Bottles remain in the cellar for several years before reaching the marketplace, ensuring the wines are both ready to drink upon release but also hold great aging potential.
