The renowned Alsatian winemaker Pierre Trimbach passed away in a traffic accident on January 31. He was 70 years old. With his death, the wine world loses a significant personality of Alsatian quality viticulture.
As a representative of the twelfth generation of the Trimbach winery in Ribeauvillé, he was responsible for the style and quality of the wines for decades as the technical director and cellar master. Under his leadership, internationally highly regarded Rieslings such as Clos Sainte Hune and Cuvée Frédéric-Émile were created. Trimbach stood for a puristic, precise, and long-lasting wine philosophy. His central quality principle was the balance of his wines. He saw the winemaker’s task as expressing the potential of the grapes clearly and unadulterated. Also, in light of climate change, he emphasized the future of Riesling and Pinot Noir in Alsace.
After his training in Beaune and stints at Famille Hugel and Robert Mondavi, he took over responsibility in the family business in 1979. The 2025 vintage was his 46th as the responsible oenologist. In addition, he was heavily involved in the region, including as a long-time president of the Grands Maisons d’Alsace and as a member of significant national and international wine organizations.
Pierre Trimbach leaves behind his daughters Anne and Frédérique, both of whom work at the winery.
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