Gewurztraminer has long been one of the emblematic grape varieties of the Turckheim commune. In the past, its warm, dry, and early-ripening climate allowed for high alcoholic maturity, with grapes often affected by noble rot, leading to the production of sweet wines. However, climate evolution has shifted the ripening period earlier, now occurring between August and September, whereas in previous decades, ripening took place between September and October, sometimes even later. With this earlier ripening, grapes now develop under longer daylight hours and increased warmth, advancing physiological maturity and, paradoxically, allowing for harvesting with lower alcohol levels. This wine ferments quickly and consistently finishes dry each year. In 2023, the Roche Roulée cuvée was not produced, meaning all vines from the Herrenweg sector were included in the Gewurztraminer Turckheim.
Domaine Zind-Humbrecht 'Turckheim' Gewurztraminer 2023
Domaine Zind-Humbrecht is widely recognized as one of the finest—if not the best—producers of white wine in the world. Based in Alsace, France, the estate is renowned for its biodynamic viticulture and unwavering commitment to terroir expression. Established in 1959 through the merger of two historic winemaking families, it is led by Olivier Humbrecht, France’s first Master of Wine. The domaine cultivates exceptional vineyard sites, including several Grand Cru holdings, producing world-class Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris, along with a rare Pinot Noir. With a philosophy of minimal intervention, extended lees aging, and natural fermentations, Zind-Humbrecht crafts wines of remarkable depth, complexity, and aging potential, consistently setting the benchmark for Alsace and beyond.
The Alsace wine region, located in northeastern France along the Rhine River, is renowned for its aromatic white wines and unique Franco-German heritage. Sheltered by the Vosges Mountains, the region benefits from a dry, sunny climate that enhances grape ripening and preserves acidity. Alsace is best known for its exceptional Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, and Muscat, often produced in a rich, expressive style with a strong sense of terroir. While traditionally a white wine stronghold, red wines—particularly Pinot Noir—are becoming increasingly important, offering fantastic alternatives to red Burgundy. The region's wines are classified under Alsace AOC, Alsace Grand Cru AOC, and Crémant d’Alsace AOC for its sparkling wines. With a strong focus on single-varietal expressions and minimal intervention winemaking, Alsace produces some of the world’s most distinctive and age-worthy wines.
