Picturesque villages, colorful houses, and a unique blend of French and German cultures are evident in every aspect of life, including the wine tradition. Alsace is one of the most interesting wine regions in Europe, known for producing wines with a very recognizable character and high quality. This fascinating area stretches along a narrow strip of northeastern France, right on the border with Germany, from Strasbourg in the north to Mulhouse in the south, bordered by the Vosges mountain range to the west and the Rhine River to the east.
On this land, protected by mountains from Atlantic rains and blessed with a climate rich in sunny days and cool nights, the roots of winemaking date back to Roman times. The region flourished during the Middle Ages when Alsatian wines were highly valued and sought after throughout Europe, just as they are today. The region’s location has also influenced its tumultuous history. After the Franco-Prussian War in 1871, it became part of Germany and was returned to France in 1918. The ongoing dynamics between French and German influences have left their mark on the language, culture, and even winemaking: Alsatian wines are an unusual blend of French and German wine culture.
In the 20th century, especially after World War II, Alsace focused on producing high-quality wines, and the introduction of the Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) system in 1962 permanently preserved the wine specifics of this terroir. Today, the region is defined by three main appellations: Alsace AOC for still wines, Crémant d’Alsace AOC for sparkling wines, and Alsace Grand Cru AOC for wines from the most prestigious vineyards.
Grape varieties and wine styles
Unlike some other French regions where the focus is often on blends, Alsace celebrates single-varietal wines, with labels proudly displaying the names of the grape varieties. White varieties dominate, making up about 90% of production. Key varieties include:
Riesling: The un-crowned king of Alsace, dry, mineral, with notes of citrus and apple. Grand Cru Rieslings often offer serious depth of aromas and great aging potential.
Gewürztraminer: Although named after the town of Tramin in South Tyrol, Gewürztraminer has found its full expression in Alsace. Alsatian Gewürztraminer is aromatic, juicy, with exotic notes of lychee, rose, and spices, and is produced in a full spectrum from dry to late harvest wines.
Pinot Gris: The Pinot Gris here is richer and fuller than its Italian cousins, carrying flavors of honey and dried fruit.
Muscat: The splendid Alsatian climate produces fresh and floral Muscat wines, ideal for aperitifs.
Crémant d’Alsace, a sparkling wine made using the traditional champagne method, is primarily consumed in France but is becoming increasingly popular abroad, offering an affordable alternative to champagne. This sparkling wine is made from the dominant Pinot Blanc, which provides freshness and elegance, as well as Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Riesling, and the local white variety Auxerrois. There is also a rosé Crémant made exclusively from Pinot Noir.
A special treat from Alsace is vendanges tardives (late harvest) and sélections de grains nobles – sweet botrytized wines, rare and highly prized.
Typical Alsatian Wines
If you are looking for a powerful, aged Alsatian Riesling with great potential for bottle development, one good choice is the Riesling Schoennenbourg 2016 from the family estate Domaine Trapet Pere et Fils, which connects the winemaking of Burgundy and Alsace, producing excellent wines in both regions. This typical Alsatian Riesling, with its golden-yellow color and mineral-spicy character, captivates with elegance.
On the other end of the stylistic scale, yet still very typical of the Alsace, is the Gewürztraminer L’Oiseau ‘Astral 2022 from Domaine Mann, a very modern winery established in 1998, dedicated to biodynamic winemaking and innovative stylistic solutions both in the cellar and design studio. Their Gewürztraminer has a citrus character, floral aromas with a touch of green tea and dried basil, and this freshness continues with flavors of tropical fruit and well-balanced acidity. A true spring wine gem!
