1997 Gewurztraminer Wintzenheim
Market price
Buying options
Tasting notes
The Humbrechts believe 1997 is the greatest Gewurztraminer vintage since 1990, with the possible exception of 1994. Readers who crave ostentatious Gewurztraminers will flip for Zind-Humbrecht's flamboyant 1997s. The 1997 Gewurztraminer Wintzenheim, harvested at Vendange Tardive levels of maturity, offers explosive, almost obnoxious aromas of lychee nuts and jasmine bathed in rose water. This massively expressive, gaudy, full-bodied wine bursts on the palate with untold layers of spicy pineapples, flowers, and candied pink grapefruits. Drink it with assertively spiced Asian dishes or pungent cheeses over the next 7 years. Importer: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Berkeley, CA; tel (510) 524-1524.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Pierre Rovani
More reviews and scores
Bright yellow-gold color. Expressive aromas of smoked meat, lichee, clove, cinnamon and earth; distinct noble rot character. A sweet, spicy fruit bomb, with notes of honey, clove and cinnamon. A large-scaled, fascinating wine best suited for drinking young.
About the producer
Widely acknowledged as one of the legendary wineries in Alsace, the wines of Domaine Zind-Humbrecht are nothing short of magical. Certified organic and biodynamic, the estate crafts an extensive range of wines, including many Grand Cru and single-vineyard bottlings.