Anne Trimbach is the13th generation of this long established family operation making Wines at Ribeauville. Anne brings a freshness and energy to this well known, well loved Alsace producer. Professional, knowledgeable and super bright but with a really polite, friendly manner, you can see why Anne has been handed one of only two family members each generation allowed to come into the fold.
The family vineyard is led by Hubert Trimbach. Daughter Anne works with nephews Jean and Pierre (the 12th generation ‘deux’ selection)
The Trimbach origins dating back to 1626 when Jean Trimbach settled in Riquewihr, have through 13 generations grown to the current 47 hectares, producing 1 million bottles each year.
Vineyard sites include 3 Grand Cru:-
- Geisberg – 45 year old vines – SE facing vineyard – Marl-limestone-sandstone
- Osterburg – Marl
- Kirchbergberg – Marl-limestone-sandstone
They’ve just acquired a new site and planted Riesling and also Pinot Noir, a variety that Anne is keen to explore further. Oak maturation is mentioned as a possibility for future vintages. Watch this space!
We tasted the Pinot Noir Reserve Cuvé 7 (the number of the tank in which it was first produced) 2013
The wine is from the Rotenburg Vineyard – 15 year old vines on limestone and chalk soils.
Fermentation in stainless steel tanks.
Pumping over.
Gravity fed free run juice is run off.
Despite the cooler challenging vintage , this light Pinot Noir shows precision with balanced acidity, ripe clean red fruits, spice notes and silky tannins.
Also tasted:-
- Pinot Blanc 2013
- Riesling 2012
- Riesling 2011 Selection Villes Vignes
- Frederic Emile 2009
- Riesling Geisberg 2009
- Riesling ‘Close Sainte Hune’ 2009
Produced from the Rosacker Vineyard
50 year old vines on dolomitic limestone
Small production of 8,000 bottles on average
Aged for a minimum of 5 years and further ageing potential in bottle up to 10 years.
A top quality wine, refined and elegant with a pronounced minerality.
- Pinot Gris Reserve Personelle 2011
- Gewürztraminer ‘Cuvee des Seigneurs de Ribeaupierre 2011
- Frederic Emile 2001
- Gerwurztraminer Selection de Grains Nobles 1989
A truly fabulous flight of wines and a very generous tasting from a top Alsace producer.
After we say our goodbyes at around 1 p.m., Anne dashes off to 3 more appointments before her day will come anywhere close to a sit down with a glass of Frederic Emile!
UK Retailers/on line suppliers include The Wine Society, Berry Brothers & Rudd, Great Western Wine and Wine Direct.co.uk
Linda Simpson
Tags: Alsace Pinot Noir Riesling
Linda, I so wanted to go! The timing did not work out but I went with another group. Trimbach was great. I’m sure you all had a great time. Wow, that 01!