Clos Windsbuhl is a respected vineyard site in the heart of Alsace's prime wine-growing district, between the towns of Colmar and Ribeauville. The monopole site, owned by Domaine Zind-Humbrecht, is located on a hillside just above Hunawihr village.
The vineyard covers 13 acres (5.2ha) overlooking the village church. It is one of the Alsace clos sites not covered by the Alsace Grand Cru appellation, but many argue it should be. The closest Grand Cru site is the highly respected Rosacker; the clos is separated from it by a few hundred feet and a small cluster of houses. The equally well-regarded Schoenenbourg Grand Cru is located just over the hillside to the west, less than half a mile away.
As might be expected, the geology and topography of Clos Windsbuhl are very similar to that of nearby Rosacker. The steep, terraced site faces south-east, an aspect which makes the most of the gentle morning sunshine. The vines here grow in limestone-rich soils with a certain percentage of clay, which aids moisture retention in the famously dry Alsace climate.
The site is planted with Alsace's three key grape varieties: Riesling, Gewurztraminer and Pinot Gris. Domaine Zind-Humbrecht produces rich, mineral-scented varietal wines from each of these, labeled with the Clos Windsbuhl name. The vineyard makes dry wines and sweet Vendanges Tardives and Selection de Grains Nobles wines.
