($150, Diageo Chateau & Estates):  The Clos Sainte Hune is a small parcel within the Grand Cru Rosacker vineyard in the village of Hunawihr that has been owned exclusively by the Trimbach family for more than 200 years.  In the Trimbach tradition, the label will never carry its Grand Cru designation despite the grandeur of the wine, which many authorities believe is Alsace’s finest.  The 2001 Clos Ste Hune is simply glorious.  At almost 10 years of age, it is just starting to show its phenomenal complexity.  Each note—minerals, earth, and fruit—speaks clearly and then, almost paradoxically, they meld together seamlessly to emerge as a different flavor profile.  But throughout, its core of steely minerality persists and invigorates.  It’s a riveting wine that expands with each sip.
97 Michael Apstein Aug 10, 2010