The terroir
Situated on the outskirts of the medieval town of Bergheim, the vineyard runs along the southern face of the Grasberg hillock, on a fairly steep slope at an altitude of 220 to 320 metres.
At the heart of the Ribeauvillé fault field, which superimposes limestone and marl from the Middle and Lower Jurassic, it is composed of very stony, shallow, fossil-rich red marl-limestone soils.
The south-facing aspect, the distance from the Vosges mountains and the steep slope sloping down to the small stream, the Bergenbach, create a warm, temperate microclimate with very regular temperatures and humidity.
The 35.06-hectare vineyard, with its unified, distinctive character, favours Gewurztraminer and Riesling.
The pride of the Bergheim winegrowers, the Altenberg has been known and renowned for its fine wines since the 12th century. Numerous citations in the municipal archives still underline its exceptional viticultural vocation.
The wines
The perfect harmony between a powerful, virile body and a fine, subtle aromatic expression distinguishes the Altenberg Grands Crus, gastronomic wines par excellence.
“Wines from the Altenberg de Bergheim are generally full-bodied.
Their structure is dense, marked by the high levels of ripeness that the winemakers can achieve with this terroir. This structure gives a sensation of power, refreshed by a vigorous acidity that integrates the natural generosity of this Grand Cru. The finish is marked by minerality and noble bitters.
The Riesling wines evoke a saline sensation and vigorous acidity; they possess density. The Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer are balanced and easy to digest, with intense aromas of blood oranges and pastries. The wines from the complantation process have a vigour that combines the delicacy and mineral power of this Grand Cru.”
Vintages
These gourmet wines can be enjoyed after four or five years, and then kept for a long time.
Early vintages: the melting texture of the wines reveals their natural concentration. The bitter orange and blood aromas enchant the taster.
Late vintages: a sensation of ‘crispness’ is apparent in these vintages, combined with a slightly firmer expression in the younger wines.
Pairings
The wines of Altenberg de Bergheim go well with powerful, firm-textured dishes such as duck in orange sauce, veal in sauce (marengo, for example), mushroom crust, or smoked fish terrines. Fruit-based desserts are also recommended with this Grand Cru.
Photo © ZVARDON / Textes CIVA – www.VinsAlsace.com
