Alsace Wine Region – A Quick Guide

Article written by Elisa
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Alsace, a historical region now forming part now of the Grand Est region in Eastern France, has both a rich and complex history. Over the past two centuries, the region has alternated between France and Germany, influencing the region’s culture, language, and, of course, its winemaking traditions.

This cross-border influence has led to a unique blend of grape varieties and wine styles found in both Alsace and the Pfalz region, its German counterpart.

The distinct terroir of Alsace, along with its unique winemaking traditions, make it a must-visit region for oenophiles and newcomers alike. The diversity in soils and the drive towards single vineyard wines also makes Alsace a fascinating region to explore, with so much variety of wine characteristics and style on offer.

Are you planning a wine trip to Alsace? Keep on reading to learn when to visit, what to expect, and the best wines to taste!

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About the Alsace Vineyards

The Alsace wine region is the easternmost wine region in France, located in the departments of Haut-Rhin and Bas-Rhin. Known for its diversity in soil type (a whopping 13 in total!), Alsatian wines exhibit unique characteristics depending on the soil they’re grown in. This makes exploring various wineries across the region such a rewarding process.

Alsatian vineyards are dominated by white grape varieties, with four noble ones taking center stage. These are Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, and Muscat, which are all celebrated for their versatility and aromatic intensity.

Wine styles are often dry, aromatic, and rich in flavor, which are all characteristics that have become synonymous with Alsatian wines. Most of the region’s wines are varietal, which really allows the region’s individual grape varieties to showcase themselves. In addition to the four noble white varieties mentioned above, Sylvaner, Pinot Blanc, Auxerrois, Savagnin Rose, and Chasselas are also used for the production of white wines.

Although white wines are the focus, Alsace also produces small quantities of red wines made predominantly from the Pinot Noir grape.

Wine Appellations and Wine Styles in Alsace

It’s also important to talk about the AOC’s (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée), of which Alsace has 53.

There is the main Alsace AOC and a further 51 Grand Crus linked to specific vineyard parcels within the region. These Grand Crus are mainly located in the Haut-Rhin department, a short distance from Colmar.

If you love bubbles, you’ll find excellent sparkling wines under the appellation Crémant d’Alsace. Blanc or rosé the Crémant d’Alsace is made using the Traditional Method (with a second fermentation in the bottle) and the grapes Auxerrois, Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, and Riesling.

If you like sweet wines, don’t miss the Vendanges Tardives (VT), late-harvest wines with rich, concentrated flavours, or the Sélection de Grains Nobles (SGN), noble rot-affected sweet wines of exceptional quality. These are not separate appellations but complementary terms to AOC Alsace and AOC Alsace Grand Cru.

The Alsace Wine Region does not have IGPs (Indication Géographique Protegée).

Another distinctive feature of the Alsace wine region is its bottles. Since 1972, all Alsace wines must be bottled within the region, using the traditional flûte du Rhin.

The Alsatian Vineyard is also one of the most important biodynamic vineyards in Europe, playing a key role in France’s commitment to sustainable and organic practices.

Alsace Towns and Villages

Strasbourg, the capital of Alsace, and Colmar are the main hubs of the region and both are very easy to reach from Paris and neighboring countries.

Strasbourg (Bas-Rhin) is located at the northern end of the Alsace Wine Route and makes a great starting point if you plan to drive the route from north to south. Don’t miss La Petite France, its most picturesque neighborhood, the city’s imposing Cathedral, and the Strasbourg Christmas Market during the holiday season.

Colmar (Haut-Rhin) is Alsace’s wine capital and is better situated for wine-focused day trips. You’ll fall in love with its beautiful architecture and charming canals.

Riquewihr, Eguisheim, and Ribeauvillé are three fairy-tale towns seemingly frozen in time since the 16th century. Their picturesque architecture, well-preserved fortifications, and historic wine cellars make them must-visit destinations for wine lovers and sightseers alike.

Hiking Trails

Most of the wine towns in Alsace are surrounded by vineyards. These winemakers’ trails are well marked and perfect for a scenic walk through the vines, punctuated with informative panels about wine and the work of the vineyard. Whether you’re a casual stroller or an experienced hiker, you’ll find a trail suited to your time, interests, and fitness level.

With more time, the Vosges offers diverse landscapes, where every path reveals a new perspective on its calm, unspoiled beauty. Winding forest trails and gentle peaks make hiking in the Vosges a rewarding escape into nature.

City Walks

Explore the best of Strasbourg and learn about its fascinating history with this Strasbourg walking tour in English.

Discover Colmar’s Old Town, including the picturesque Little Venice neighborhood, with this guided walking tour in English.

You should also always book your winery visit ahead of time by at least a few days to avoid the disappointment of being turned away. This will need to be done even further in advance during holidays and other busy periods.

A typical winery visit will entail a tour around the winery and its facilities followed by a guided tasting of selected wines, which usually lasts up to two hours depending on your pace. I’d recommend a maximum of 4 winery visits in a day to avoid an overstimulation of information (and wine).

Lastly, either spit, have a designated driver, or book a tour – wine and cars don’t mix well. Safety first!

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