The terroir
Situated in the commune of Bergheim, to the west of the Altenberg, this locality faces south and south-west, on the slopes of the Kanzlerberg, at an average altitude of 250 metres.
The very heavy clay-limestone soil is composed of grey and black marl with Keuper gypsum and, at the base, Muschelkalk limestone.
On the 3.23 ha of this vineyard, the Tokay Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer and especially the Riesling find the ideal conditions for a very typical wine.
History
Vines were already being grown on this hillside in 1312, when the Order of Malta, which had an estate here, was abolished. As proof of its exceptional quality, the vines were vinified separately.
The wines
The Kanzlerberg Grands Crus require ageing to bring out their power and fullness, evoking the combination of heavy soil and the aromas of the grape variety.
« This terroir leaves its mark on the wines with its assertive style. Intense freshness and great finesse are combined with a slender, fleshy palate. The wines are full-bodied and airy. This framework favours an intense mineral sensation, reminiscent of hot stone or lava, which becomes the wine’s major aromatic element on the palate.
Riesling and Gewurztraminer express themselves here with great depth, each in its own way. The former imposes finesse, relief and energy. The second combines a spicy expression with the mineral power of the cru and a refined elegance. »
The vintages
Kanzlerberg wines find their balance after seven to eight years, and age admirably. This period is necessary to reveal the full potential of the wines.
In early vintages, the fleshiness of the wines is denser and fuller, giving a sensation of deliciousness.
In late vintages, the airy note becomes the major element that allows the tension to extend the salinity even more brilliantly.
Pairings
This wine offers two different approaches. As its minerality is very pronounced, it’s a good idea to accentuate it with salty, firm-textured dishes. Shellfish, abalone, scallops or cuttlefish are all excellent echoes of the Kanzlerberg wines. Another option is to combine the juiciness of the dishes with the delicacy of the wines, for example with roast or stewed poultry.
Photo © ZVARDON / Textes CIVA – www.VinsAlsace.com
