Alsace: A Wine Lover’s Paradise
Nestled between the Vosges Mountains and the Rhine River, Alsace is a picturesque wine region known for its aromatic white wines and charming half-timbered villages. This unique corner of France offers a blend of French and German influences, creating a distinctive culture and cuisine.
Wine Regions
Towns and Villages
Colmar, the wine capital of Alsace, enchants visitors with its colorful medieval architecture and winding canals. Don’t miss the famous “Little Venice” district.
Riquewihr is a fairytale-like village, seemingly frozen in time since the 16th century. Its well-preserved fortifications and wine cellars make it a must-visit destination.
Eguisheim, birthplace of Pope Leo IX, boasts concentric circular streets and numerous wine tasting cellars. Its picturesque setting has earned it the title of “One of the Most Beautiful Villages in France”.
Wine Producers
Trimbach in Ribeauvillé is renowned for its Rieslings, particularly the legendary Clos Sainte Hune. Book a tasting to experience their exceptional wines.
Domaine Weinbach in Kaysersberg offers organic and biodynamic wines in a historic setting. Their Gewürztraminer and Riesling are particularly noteworthy.
Domaine Zind-Humbrecht in Turckheim is known for its terroir-driven approach and impressive range of Grand Cru wines. Their tasting room provides an educational experience for wine enthusiasts.
Accommodations
The Hostellerie des Châteaux & Spa in Ottrott offers luxurious rooms and a wine-themed spa, perfect for a romantic getaway. Their extensive wine cellar features local and international selections.
For a more intimate experience, try La Maison des Têtes in Colmar. This historic 5-star hotel houses a Michelin-starred restaurant and offers wine-pairing dinners.
Le Chambard in Kaysersberg combines rustic charm with modern amenities. Their two-star Michelin restaurant, 64° Le Restaurant, showcases local ingredients paired with Alsatian wines.
Dining
L’Auberge de l’Ill in Illhaeusern holds three Michelin stars and offers an unparalleled dining experience. Their wine list features an impressive selection of Alsatian wines.
For traditional Alsatian cuisine, visit Winstub S’Baecka Ofa in Strasbourg. Their tarte flambée and choucroute garnie pair perfectly with local Rieslings and Gewürztraminers.
JY’S in Colmar offers a modern twist on Alsatian flavors. Chef Jean-Yves Schillinger’s innovative dishes are complemented by an extensive wine list focusing on local producers.
Wine Shops & Bars
La Cave de Turckheim offers an extensive selection of local wines. Their knowledgeable staff provides excellent recommendations for wine pairings.
Le Bistrot & Cave à Vins in Strasbourg combines a cozy wine bar atmosphere with a well-stocked shop. Enjoy wine by the glass or purchase bottles to take home.
Other Shops
La Maison du Fromage in Gunsbach specializes in local cheeses, perfect for pairing with Alsatian wines.
Visit La Boutique des Spécialités in Colmar for traditional Alsatian products like foie gras, kugelhopf, and artisanal jams.
Attractions
The Alsace Wine Route stretches 170 km, offering picturesque views of vineyards and charming villages. Stop at wineries along the way for tastings.
Visit the Unterlinden Museum in Colmar to see the famous Isenheim Altarpiece and learn about Alsatian history and culture.
Events
The Colmar Wine Fair in August showcases over 300 Alsatian wines. Enjoy tastings, food pairings, and live music.
Christmas markets in Strasbourg and Colmar offer mulled wine, local crafts, and festive atmosphere from late November to December.
Appellations
Alsace AOC covers most of the region’s wine production, including varietal wines and blends.
Alsace Grand Cru AOC represents 51 exceptional vineyard sites, producing high-quality, terroir-driven wines.
Grape Varieties
Alsace is renowned for its aromatic white wines. The region’s main grape varieties include:
- Riesling: Produces dry, elegant wines with high acidity
- Gewurztraminer: Known for its intense aromatics and spicy notes
- Pinot Gris: Offers rich, full-bodied wines with subtle fruitiness
- Muscat: Yields dry, fragrant wines with distinctive grape flavors
- Pinot Blanc: Creates light, refreshing wines with subtle apple notes
- Sylvaner: Produces crisp, light-bodied wines with herbal characteristics
Pinot Noir is the primary red grape variety in Alsace, typically used for light-bodied red wines and rosés.
Main Wine Styles
Alsace offers a diverse range of wine styles, each showcasing the region’s unique terroir:
- Alsace AOC: Dry, single-varietal wines that express the grape’s character
- Crémant d’Alsace: Sparkling wines made using the traditional method
- Vendanges Tardives: Late-harvest wines with rich, concentrated flavors
- Sélection de Grains Nobles: Noble rot-affected sweet wines of exceptional quality
- Alsace Grand Cru: Wines from specific, superior vineyard sites
Most Alsace wines are bottled in tall, slender flûte d’Alsace bottles, distinguishing them from other French wines.
Food Specialties
Alsatian cuisine blends French and German influences, offering hearty dishes that pair well with local wines:
- Choucroute garnie: Sauerkraut with various meats, perfect with Riesling
- Tarte flambée: Thin-crust pizza with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon
- Baeckeoffe: Meat and potato casserole, ideal with Pinot Gris
- Coq au Riesling: Chicken cooked in Riesling wine
- Kugelhopf: Sweet, ring-shaped cake, often enjoyed with Gewurztraminer
Many local restaurants offer wine pairings to complement traditional Alsatian dishes.
Drives & Walks
Explore Alsace’s picturesque landscapes and charming villages:
Alsace Wine Route
This 170 km scenic drive connects quaint wine villages and offers stunning vineyard views. Stop at wineries for tastings and enjoy local cuisine along the way.
Hiking Trails
The Vosges Mountains provide numerous hiking opportunities. Try the Grand Ballon trail for panoramic views of the Rhine Valley and Black Forest.
Colmar City Walk
Discover Colmar’s historic center, including the picturesque Little Venice quarter and the Unterlinden Museum, home to the Isenheim Altarpiece.
Itineraries
3-Day Wine Lover’s Tour
- Day 1: Explore Colmar, visit Domaine Weinbach for a tasting
- Day 2: Drive to Riquewihr, tour Hugel & Fils winery, enjoy dinner at Winstub Au Tire Bouchon
- Day 3: Visit Strasbourg, take a wine cruise on the Ill River
5-Day Alsace Adventure
- Day 1-2: Strasbourg city tour, visit Cathedral, take a day trip to Obernai
- Day 3-4: Drive the Wine Route, stopping at Ribeauvillé, Kaysersberg, and Eguisheim
- Day 5: Explore Colmar, visit the Unterlinden Museum, enjoy a farewell dinner at JY’S restaurant
These itineraries combine wine experiences with cultural attractions, offering a well-rounded Alsace experience.
Getting There & Around
Alsace is easily accessible by various modes of transportation:
- Air: Fly into Strasbourg Airport or Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg EuroAirport
- Train: High-speed TGV connections from Paris to Strasbourg (2h20)
- Car: Excellent road networks connect Alsace to major European cities
Within Alsace, consider these options:
- Rental car: Ideal for exploring the Wine Route and rural areas
- Bicycle: Extensive cycling paths connect wine villages
- Public transport: Reliable bus and train services between major towns
Best Time to Visit
Alsace offers unique experiences year-round:
- Spring (April-May): Mild weather, fewer crowds, blooming vineyards
- Summer (June-August): Warm temperatures, outdoor festivals, busy season
- Fall (September-November): Harvest time, wine festivals, beautiful foliage
- Winter (December-March): Christmas markets, cozy wine tastings, potential for snow
For wine enthusiasts, plan your visit during the harvest season or attend the Alsace Wine Fair in August.
Sustainability Efforts
Alsace is committed to sustainable viticulture:
- Organic farming: Many vineyards have adopted organic practices
- Biodynamic winemaking: Producers like Zind-Humbrecht lead in biodynamic methods
- Water conservation: Innovative irrigation techniques reduce water usage
- Biodiversity: Planting cover crops and creating wildlife corridors in vineyards
Visit eco-friendly wineries like Domaine Ostertag or Josmeyer to learn about their sustainable practices.
Language Tips
While French is the official language, Alsatian dialect is still spoken:
- Basic French phrases: “Bonjour” (Hello), “Merci” (Thank you), “S’il vous plaît” (Please)
- Wine-related terms: “Dégustation” (Tasting), “Vin blanc/rouge” (White/red wine)
- Alsatian words: “Winstub” (Wine bar), “Schnaps” (Fruit brandy)
Most people in the wine industry speak English, but locals appreciate efforts to use French or Alsatian phrases.
Further Resources
Enhance your Alsace wine journey with these resources:
- Websites: Vins d’Alsace for official wine information
- Books: “Wines of Alsace” by Tom Stevenson for in-depth wine knowledge
- Apps: Download “Alsace Wine Route” for a self-guided tour
- Local tourist offices: Visit for up-to-date event information and maps
Consider joining a wine club or subscribing to wine publications for ongoing Alsace wine education.
