The Alsace family of Trimbach has a wine-making history stretching back almost 4 centuries, the firm having come into existence in 1626. It was not until the late 19th century, however, under the leadership of Frédéric-Emile Trimbach, that the business began to really expand. Success came when he exhibited the wines at an international fair in Brussels in 1898, to much acclaim. Since the days of Frédéric-Emile the house of Trimbach has remained a family run business, based in Ribeauvillé, for much of this time with brothers Bernard and Hubert at the helm although today it is their sons, Jean and Pierre, that are in charge. Pierre busies himself with true work of a viticulteur, looking after the vines and running the harvest, whereas Jean has his hand on marketing and publicity.

This wine is named for Frédéric Emile who became famous for providing a new guarantee of quality and authenticity for Trimbach in 1898. The south and south-east facing Ribeauvillé terroirs and Grand Crus of Geisberg and Osterberg which overlook the winery have been producing this wine for several generations. Today, CFE is considered a benchmark of Grand Crus Riesling even though the labels does not say the names of the vineyards. It's Trimbach's Signature wine. The average age of the vines, 45 years, results in limited yields. The marl-limestone-sandstone and fossil-flecked Muschelkalk composition of the terroir, as well as the beautifully ripe grapes selected and harvested at the end of October lend this wine a remarkable personality: a dry and powerful Riesling, underlined by a mineral note and firm ripe acidity.

Bright straw. Clean, vibrantly mineral and racy aromas and flavors of green apple, pear and lime. Ripe yet brightly acidic, this exhibits a penetrating quality on the long, juicy, ginger- and mineral-accented finish. Very compact, dense and still youthful Riesling. Outstanding. Date: Jan 2019; Drink:  2026 - 2039; Rating: 95+ Points; Vinous