Gustave Lorentz Cremants d'Alsace

From the enduringly charming town of Bergheim, in Alsace France, this wine shares its charm with the world. The Lorentz family has been farming here since 1836, with Georges, of the family’s seventh generation, now heading up operations.

Jurassic Era marl-limestone and the clay-limestone soils abound in the hillsides of Bergheim’s Grasberg, with a subsoil rich in fossils. Out of respect for the soil, great pains are taken to let nature run its course in the production of their wines. Knowing when and when not to intervene, Georges says, is crucial in forging a true man-in-nature approach. When such a partnership is forged with the vines, the soil, the environment and its intuitive caretakers, a profound expression of place emerges.

This cuvee is created with silky co-blended Pinot Blanc and Pinot Auxerrois for more than half of its blend, with the body of Pinot Noir, the charm of Chardonnay and just a splash of delicately aromatic Pinot Gris for lightness and completion. The Gustave Lorentz house style could be characterized as seeking to create wines with both drinkability and a delightful balance and grace, and this accessibly priced Crémant is a great example of this style.

Fine and delicate aromas tickle the nose with the scent of fresh green apples, zesty lemons, blanched almonds and rich brioche. A crisp and bright mouthfeel is enhanced with finely beaded bubbles, with a nice medium weight on the palate, which finishes beautifully dry and biscuity.

Share this lovely Crémant with friends as an apertif, toasting the anticipation of a fine meal and great fellowship.