Grands Crus

The Lorentz family, over 7 generations, strived for excellence by expanding their vineyards on the best terroirs and slopes of Bergheim and particularly its 2 Grands Crus : Altenberg de Bergheim and Kanzlerberg.

Grand Cru Altenberg de Bergheim

An outstanding Terroir

On the outside the medieval town of Bergheim, the vineyard extends along the south side of the hillock Grasberg, steeply sloping at an altitude of 220-320 metres. At the heart of the Ribeauvillé geological rift, limestone and marls from the Jurassic period overlap and, underneath consists of red calcareous clay soils that are very stony, shallow and rich in fossils. The south-facing exposure, the remoteness of the Vosges mountains, the steep slope and the Bergenbach stream down the hill all foster a warm and temperate micro climate with very regular temperatures and humidity.

Grape Varieties

Due to its unity and typicality, the vineyard, with an area of 35,06 ha is the perfect terroir to grow Gewurztraminer, Riesling and Pinot Gris at their best.

Historically renowned Terroir

Pride of the Bergheim vineyards, Altenberg has been known for its fine wines since the 12th century. Many quotes in the town records highlight its exceptional viticulture qualities.

Wine Profile

Whatever the grape variety, Altenberg de Bergheim Grands Crus wines are complex with a full-body and great concentration, set off by crisp, delicate aromatics. There is a touch of minerality, the acidity is elegant and well-balanced, and there is a slightly savoury note on the finish. They are food-friendly wines that one can enjoy throughout a meal.

Grand Cru Kanzlerberg

An outstanding Terroir

Just outside the town of Bergheim, full west from Altenberg, this Grand Cru faces south and south-west with steep slopes, at an average altitude of 250m. The heavy clay-limestone soil is composed of grey and black gypsum marl from Keuper and Muschelkalk limestone further deep. It is the only terroir in Alsace to benefit from these characteristics.

Grape Varieties

On the 3,23 hectars of this Grand Cru, the smallest of all Alsace, Pinot Gris and Riesling enjoy ideal conditions for great complexity and typicity.

Historically renowned Terroir

The Kanzlerberg hill was first mentioned in 1312 by the Sovereign Military Order of Malta who owned a parcel. Proof of its exceptional quality, the grapes coming from the Kanzlerberg were already vinified separately from other grapes.

Wine Profile

Kanzlerberg Grands Crus wines are rich and powerful, underlying their heavy soils and grape varieties' specific aromas. It requires time to open and reveal its full potential, so we release them after a minimum of 5 years resting in bottle in our cellars. Those with enough patience can wait 10 to 15 years in a classic vintage and 20 to 30 years in a great vintage before enjoying the wines.