Sustainability Spotlight: Trimbach, Tasting Time in a Bottle
Since 1626, Trimbach has been one of the grand houses of Alsace. I was fortunate to visit and I’m excited to share with you my tasting of their two top (my opinion) Rieslings, Cuvee Frederic Emile (now labeled without the word Cuvee) and Clos Ste. Hune.
In 1972, Maison Trimbach eradicated all chemical use from the vineyard and winery and has been practicing sustainable agriculture for the Classic range and organic production for the Reserves, Gold labels, Grands Crus, and Prestige wines. With full organic certification nearly complete for their estate vineyards and those of grower partners, the winery expects to have certified organic labeling for all wines as of the 2023 vintage.
When it comes to the historic estate vineyards, the health, resilience and quality potential of these plots is supported by a suite of regenerative and biodiversity-focused practices steeped in tradition, whose benefits are now supported by science. These efforts include deployment of a sheep flock to maintain and nourish vineyard soils from winter to budding, as well as planting trees and installing bird boxes to support biodiversity and natural pest management.
I encourage you to target the classic range any time you are searching for value, as I do, because they are so great with food. And even they age well for at least 7 years, often longer, so definitely put some away so you can see for yourself – and prepare to be amazed!