2020 Trimbach “Classic” Pinot Blanc

Since 1626, the Trimbach family has been promoting the history, exceptional terroirs and fine wines of Alsace. Maison Trimbach is located in Ribeauvillé, in north-eastern France, where today three generations work closely together.

Day-to-day operations are handled personally by brothers Pierre and Jean Trimbach, representing the 12th generation. Bernard and Hubert Trimbach, the 11th generation (father and uncle, respectively, to Pierre and Jean) remain integrally involved. Anne, the eldest of the 13th generation, has just joined the family business. The Trimbachs have a purist vision. Across 12 generations, the family has always produced wines that are structured, long-lived, fruity, elegant and balanced: the celebrated Trimbach style. Bottles remain in the cellar for several years before reaching the marketplace, ensuring the wines are both ready to drink upon release but also hold great aging potential.

Pierre Trimbach (winemaker since 1979) was named one of the world’s Top Ten White Winemakers by Decanter Magazine in 2006. He was also named “Wine Personality of 2016” by Betthane & Desseauve Magazine.

Approachable, aromatic and pleasantly plush on the palate, Pinot Blanc is a white grape variety most associated with the Alsace region of France. Although its heritage is Burgundian, today it is rarely found there and instead thrives throughout central Europe, mainly in Germany and Austria, where it is known as Weissburgunder and Alto Adige where it is called Pinot Bianco. Interestingly, Pinot Blanc was born out of a mutation of the pink-skinned Pinot Gris.

The grapes for the Trimbach Pinot Blanc were bought from about 70 growers and carefully selected by Pierre Trimbach during the harvests. They are gently pressed in pneumatic presses, and totally dry vinified (this means that there is less than 1% residual sugar in the wine). The wine is aged for two years in the cellar before being released after the winemaker deems the wine to have the perfect balance of fruit and acidity.

The resulting wine is pale yellow color with green reflections. On the nose it has concentrated aromas of white flowers and apricots. On the palate it is smooth, medium-bodied with crisp acidity.

Another versatile wine, it is lovely as an aperitif and it pairs well appetizers, shellfish, fried calamari, and charcuteries.