Domaine Zinck Portrait Pinot Gris 2016 Alsace, France 75cl

Domaine Zinck is a family-run estate based at Eguisheim in Alsace, founded in 1964 by Paul Zinck and now in the hands of his son Philippe. The vineyards are farmed organically, and the house style aims for clean, expressive wines that put the grape and the place first.

Portrait is Zinck’s varietal range, a set of wines each made to give a clear, honest picture of a single Alsace grape. This one is pure Pinot Gris, a variety that gives Alsace some of its richest, most textured whites, a world away from the light Italian style of the same grape.

The 2016 vintage in Alsace was a fine, balanced year, ripening fruit fully while keeping fresh acidity in reserve. That balance matters for Pinot Gris, which can turn heavy in warmer years but here keeps its poise.

Expect a fuller-bodied white with aromas of ripe orchard fruit, apricot and honey, lifted by a gentle note of smoke and spice that is typical of the grape in Alsace. The palate is rounded and generous, with just enough fresh acidity to keep it lively and clean through a long finish. Serve it well chilled with smoked fish, charcuterie, creamy chicken or pork dishes, mild curries or a mature cheese.

Alsace Pinot Gris is one of the great food whites, at home with the richer, spicier dishes that many other whites struggle to match. Approachable, versatile and fairly priced, this Portrait bottling is an easy, characterful introduction to the style and a reliable house white for the table.