Bergheim

Bergheim is a French commune in the Haut-Rhin department in the region Alsace and belongs to the Arrondissement of Colmar-Ribeauvillé. Archaeological finds provide evidence of a Gallo-Roman villa dating from the 3rd century, with mosaics and underfloor heating systems (hypocaust heating) over an area of around 7,800 square metres. After it was destroyed in the succession dispute of 1287, the place was fortified in 1312 by Henri de Ribeaupierre.

The Alsace Grand Cru Altenberg de Bergheim lies entirely within the commune’s territory, at the outlet of the enclosed Vallée du Bergenbach on the Grasberg. The slopes, which are mainly south-facing, are of medium steepness to steep and extend from east to south-west. The terroir of clay, limestone and sandstone features fine, stony red limestone soils with a high marl content.

The Vosges as well as the Altenberg and the Taennchel protect the vineyard site from moist north-westerly winds and from northern and western winds. The mesoclimate is considered dry, calm and sheltered, with small day-to-night temperature differences and uniform physiological ripeness. The designation of origin recognised in 1983 allows Riesling, Gewürztraminer and Pinot Gris as varietal wines or permitted blends. The wines are intended for ageing and combine freshness, pronounced acidity, body, aromatic power, complexity and a long finish. Vendanges Tardives and Sélection de Grains Nobles show a higher concentration and sweeter fruit.

The grapes of the Altenberg de Bergheim are picked by hand; a high training system is required and enrichment is prohibited. For vines planted after 26 March 2005, a minimum planting density of 5,500 vines per hectare applies. The Domaine Marcel Deiss based in Bergheim cultivates its vineyards biodynamically, with low yields, agroforestry and mixed plantings of Alsatian grape varieties. In the cellar, the winery relies on indigenous yeasts and natural fermentation without added nitrogen correction agents, bacteria, enzymes or aromatic additives.