Grand Cru Zinnkoepflé: iconic terroir of Alsace
Zinnkoepflé: the home of the Grands Crus of Alsace
Stretching over the communes of Soultzmatt and Westhalten, the Zinnkoepflé Grand Cru is the highest of the Alsace Grands Crus, peaking at between 200 and 440 meters above sea level. Its name, meaning "Mount of the Sun", reflects its ideal south-west and south-east exposure, offering exceptional sunshine. This terroir benefits from a Mediterranean-type climate, favoring the over-ripening of the grapes and giving the wines a unique aromatic richness.
A limestone and sandstone region with a unique microclimate
The soil of the Zinnkoepflé is composed of limestone and sandstone, offering optimal drainage and a mineral richness conducive to the cultivation of noble grape varieties. The high altitude and exposure favor a particular microclimate, with currents of fresh air coming to temper the heat of the sun, thus allowing a slow and progressive ripening of the grapes. These exceptional conditions give rise to powerful, generous wines with great aromatic finesse.
Gewurztraminer, the jewel of the Zinnkoepflé
Gewurztraminer is the emblematic grape variety of the Zinnkoepflé Grand Cru, representing more than half of the planted area. It develops intense aromas of peony, verbena, menthol and liquorice, with a natural hint of vanilla and a slight smokiness. The wines produced from this terroir are distinguished by their power, generosity and beautiful acidity that balances the residual sugars, offering a harmonious and persistent taste experience.
Discover our vintages from the Zinnkoepflé Grand Cru
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Questions you may have
In order to qualify for the Grand Cru AOC designation, strict rules must be followed during the wine production process. Only four grape varieties are permitted in the Grand Cru appellations: Riesling, Muscat, Pinot Gris, and Gewurztraminer. There are a few exceptions regarding grape variety blends in Altenberg de Bergheim and Kaefferkopf, while Sylvaner is permitted in Zotzenberg.