Gewurz Herrenweg Turkheim VV, Domaine Zind-Humbrecht 2010

Marginally lower in alcohol (at 12.8%) and higher in residual sugar (at 72 grams!) than even the corresponding regular bottling, Zind-Humbrecht's 2010 Gewurztraminer Herrenweg de Turckheim Vieilles Vignes reveals an entirely different personality, as reflects the proclivities of these very old and deeply rooted selection massale vines. Mint, peppermint, chamomile, rose and decadent lily soar from the glass, then re-emerge as seductive inner-mouth perfume on a creamy, almost buttery palate that nonetheless retains an uncanny degree of primary pineapple and pink grapefruit juiciness. This soars and soothes in a prodigiously long finish tinged with a stimulating tongue-tingling of white pepper, peppermint, alkali and citrus rinds. Humbrecht suggests you could successfully pair it with a coconut milk curry. Certainly taken on its own it represents a magnificent success, and one likely to reward return visits through 2030. Drink 2014-2030

Though initially rather closed on the nose, with time this opens out to produce an elegant nose of honeyed apple and hints of rich spice and blossom. The palate then delivers in a thunderous manner, full of peaches, orange syrup and notes of caramel. The finish is long and the overall balance is excellent.