pinot gris  rangen de than clos st urban gg

echnical presentation
Bottling :
August 2013
Acquired alcohol :
14.5°
Residual sugar :
38.0 g/l
Total acidity :
3.4 g/l H2SO4 (5.2 g/l Acide Tartrique)
pH :
3.7
Yield :
11 hl/ha
Optimum tasting :
2018-2037+
Average age of vines :
49 years
Terroir :
Grand Cru Rangen de Thann Clos Saint Urbain
Sweetness index :
4
Soil :
Sedimentary volcanic rocks (Tuffs & Grauwake), South facing, Very steep slope
Description of the wine Pinot Gris Grand Cru Rangen from Thann Clos Saint Urbain 2012
2012 was probably one of the most difficult and complicated vintages for the Rangen. Spring was late causing a very late difficult flowering. The frequent rainfalls made it difficult to spray the vineyard against diseases and treatments had to be repeated more than usual. Finally, hail struck the vines early August, when the clusters were still quite small, removing a large chunk of the potential harvest. The result was a very small crop. Of course, we are used to harvest small grapes on this steep volcanic hill, but I think that, without noble rot, 2012 must be a record. Luckily, botrytis didn’t develop (it would have decreased the crop even more) and the grapes were harvested very healthy.

Tasting notes
02/2014 : The nose shows a beautiful intensity, needs a lot of time, but eventually the glass is bursting of fruit aromas (ripe pears) and delicate flint. There is a big sense of serenity and density in this wine, it is hard to believe how difficult the vintage was. The palate shows unctuosity and length, doesn’t really feel powerful, like so many 2012s. Big saline finish. Great ageing potential. There should be no fear in opening this wine a long time before service (days!).