Zind-Humbrecht White Blend Alsace Aoc Zind 2008

This domaine is well-known for its extensive range of single-vineyard wines, but its basic Riesling, launched with the 2003 vintage, offers an affordable introduction to both the winery and the region. Winemaker Olivier Humbrechtrsquo;s blend comprises about two thirds grapes from the Herrenwed vineyard, primarily the vines with grapes from several of the domainersquo;s other Riesling vineyards, especially from Gueberschwihr.

Pale straw-gold. Musky, nuanced nose offers chamomile and spicy high notes along with smoke and earth bass tones. Chewy and tactile, with plenty of CO2 perking up the flavors of pineapple, flint, minerals, nutmeg and earth. In a fairly dry, penetrating style, with underlying acidity currently hidden by the winersquo;s chewy, tactile texture and fruit element. Finishes firm, juicy and persistent. This one grew on me as it showed more clarity with aeration. Powerful and built to age.

A zesty white, with lively acidity accenting the apple blossom, white peach, lemon zest and honey notes. Therersquo;s a smoky undertow and a pleasant overall juiciness. Drink now through 2013.

A dry white thatrsquo;s well put together, with integrated acidity and a compact structure that mesh nicely. A pleasant orange blossom note accents flavors of quince and honey, while the lingering finish shows a hint of minerality. Drink now through 2020.

Bright medium yellow. Fresh peach, yellow flowers and crushed stone on the expressive nose. Fairly rich but quite brisk, with citrus, stone fruit, spice and wet stone flavors lifted by ginger and quinine toward the back. Just off-dry (6 g/l r.s.), finishing with a lingering flavor of dusty stone. An excellent basic riesling.

A well-cut Riesling, offering a salty mineral note and laserlike acidity that defines the quince, yellow peach and floral notes. This packs a lot of flavor into an elegant and light-weight package. Drink now through 2022.

A mix of smoke, mineral and apple aromas and flavors in a dry, racy profile. This may be a bit lean for some tastes, so make sure you pair it with food. The citrus and mineral aftertaste begs for oysters or shellfish. Best from 2009 through 2017.