2024 Gustave Lorentz Reserve Riesling, Alsace

Round and approachable, with softer acidity framing juicy peach and lemon sorbet flavors. The palate is smooth and easygoing, offering immediate pleasure rather than sharp definition. Clean and pleasant, finishing gently with a fresh, lightly citrusy note.

Wine Enthusiast

Gustave Lorentz has been part of the Alsace wine landscape since 1748, with the family based in the beautiful village of Bergheim for generations. Today the estate remains family run, with Georges Lorentz overseeing a substantial collection of vineyards around the village. Riesling is naturally one of the stars here, and the Réserve sits at the approachable end of the range while retaining the dry, food friendly style for which the house is known.

Bergheim lies in the northern part of the Haut Rhin, tucked beneath the Vosges Mountains, whose rain shadow helps make Alsace one of France’s driest wine regions. The 2024 Réserve Riesling captures the variety in a bright, uncomplicated form, with citrus and orchard fruit at the centre and enough mineral bite to keep things interesting. Importantly, it finishes dry rather than wandering into sweetness.

Pale straw with green highlights. Fresh lime, lemon and green apple open the nose, followed by white peach, grapefruit and a little citrus blossom. There is a touch of lemongrass and ginger underneath, with a cool stony note appearing as it opens. The palate is crisp and lively, with juicy citrus fruit, mouthwatering acidity and a clean mineral thread. Lime zest and grapefruit leave the finish dry and refreshing.

Vietnamese turmeric fish with dill and spring onion is right on target, particularly with plenty of lime alongside. Steamed prawns, salt and pepper squid, asparagus with sesame or a classic onion tart would all be equally happy company. Cellaring: Drink now to 2032.