TN: Zind Humbrecht 1994 Pinot Gris Clos Windsbuhl Vendange Tardive

[Ray Barnes]

Was uncorked on Jan. 18, re-tasted yesterday and this afternoon. Fine bright amber color, not unlike Imperial Topaz. Quite viscous. Plenty of botrytis on the nose and in the mouth, with apricots, dried pineapple, and a bit of salinity, which in the last two days has been more pronounced. Pretty good acidity too, 60 plus second finish. 12% alcohol, completely imperceptible. My wife and a friend think it is a superior wine in every respect, I would go a notch lower, maybe excellent plus. If you like very sweet luscious wine, this could be desert island stuff, but I somewhat prefer a bit less sugar and more expression of place. I think it was about $90 a bottle, certainly worth it if you can find it. Compared to the 1996 Broadbent Madeira, this had better acidity, balance and concentration.