The 2021 Gustave Lorentz Riesling Vieilles Vignes Altenberg de Bergheim Grand Cru is a profound expression of Alsace Riesling, sourced from one of the region's most prestigious Grand Cru vineyards. Produced by the historic Gustave Lorentz, this wine showcases the purity, precision, and remarkable ageing potential that have made Altenberg de Bergheim one of Alsace's most celebrated terroirs.
Founded in 1836, Gustave Lorentz has long been recognised as one of Alsace's leading family-owned estates. The winery's holdings in Altenberg de Bergheim include old-vine Riesling parcels that consistently produce wines of exceptional concentration, minerality, and complexity.
The Grand Cru Altenberg de Bergheim vineyard sits on a mosaic of limestone, marl, and clay soils, providing ideal conditions for Riesling. The Vieilles Vignes designation reflects the advanced age of the vines, whose naturally low yields contribute additional intensity, depth, and site expression.
The 2021 vintage was characterised by a cooler growing season, resulting in Rieslings of remarkable freshness, aromatic purity, and vibrant acidity. The wine displays classic Alsatian precision while retaining the concentration and structure required for long-term ageing.
The bouquet reveals lifted aromas of lime zest, lemon blossom, green apple, white peach, and pear, intertwined with notes of wet stone, chalk, white flowers, and subtle spice. As the wine opens, hints of citrus oil and flinty minerality emerge, adding further complexity.
The palate is dry, focused, and beautifully structured. Intense citrus and orchard fruit flavours are framed by vibrant acidity and a pronounced mineral backbone. The old vines contribute texture and concentration, while the finish is exceptionally long, precise, and saline.
Although already impressive in its youth, the 2021 Riesling Vieilles Vignes Altenberg de Bergheim is built for extended cellaring and will continue to evolve over the next 15ā25+ years, developing the complex honeyed and petroleum nuances that define great mature Alsace Riesling.
Winery: Gustave Lorentz
Region: Alsace, France
Vineyard: Altenberg de Bergheim Grand Cru
Variety: Riesling
Vintage: 2021
Style: Dry White Wine
Closure: Cork
Food Pairing: Oysters, lobster, scallops, sashimi, roast pork, poultry, Alsatian cuisine, and washed-rind cheeses.
