Wines from Alsace have always been popular in the north.

The period from the early 14th century and to the 17th century was the golden age of Alsace, but even before, winemakers would place their wine on small rafts on the river L’Ill, and when it merged with the Rhine,

it was transported to larger ships and sent to the royal courts of the north, such as Denmark, Sweden and Russia.

At that time, the vineyards of Alsace were the producers of the most expensive and exclusive wine in the world, working according to the traditions taught to them by the Romans many centuries before.

Today, the region is a hybrid mix of German and French culture (and it has been French more or less since Louis XIV), but still distinctly its own, which can explain why it is so popular in Europe – 80% of all Alsace wine is consumed in Europe. 

In 1648, the end 30 year-war also brought an end to the success of the Alsace wine business. Alsace, once one of the richest regions in Europe, became one of the poorest. The Protestant region now belonged to a Catholic country, and its former clients (the royal courts of the north) thus became its enemies.

All that remained of the Alsace wealth was the grandeur of the houses built by farmers and merchants in the region, but now becoming derelict and impossible to live in, symbols of a glorious but distant past. Today, Alsace remains the smallest and least populated area in France. 

Very few things can actually grow in Alsace. The soil is not good for either potatoes or wheat.

Only one commodity can grow here: wine.

For the last 700 years, farmers have grown grapes on these particular hills. The terroir has consistently high levels of minerals and limestone, which can be tasted in the wine. 

Gustave Lorentz was founded in 1836 in Bergheim, and is considered one of the finest houses of the region. All of their wines come from their 33 hectares on the hills surrounding the village, grown according to organic regulations since 2012.

Gustave Lorentz, Riesling. Lieu-dit Burg

Lieu-dit Burg is one of Gustave Lorentz’ best and most accessible wines – light and easy with a distinct freshness. 

Gustave Lorentz, Riesling, Grand Cru (2011)

In Alsace, only seven types of grapes are grown, and of the seven, Riesling is undoubtedly the most famous and popular.

Sometimes referred to as “the king of grapes”, the Riesling is accessible yet elegant, of the highest quality but nevertheless accessible. Gustave Lorentz’ Riesling Grand Cru is, regardless of vintage, an informed choice. 

Gustave Lorentz, Pinot gris, AOP Grand Cru

Gustave Lorentz Pinot Gris is strong in minerals and has a decidedly rich personality. The same is true of wine as it is for people: aging rounds the edges, and this is noticeable also in this organic wine.  

Maison Gustave Lorentz

91 Rue des Vignerons

Bergheim

France