THE HISTORY OF ALSACE WINES

Stretching along the slopes of the Vosges mountains, the Alsace region has a long history of viticulture. The history of winegrowing in Alsace probably dates back to Roman times, but it was in the Middle Ages that it really took off, thanks to the monastic orders. In the 16th century, the wine-growing region prospered and expanded, although the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648) destroyed much of the vineyards. Situated close to today's German border (along the Rhine), the region was a territory of political disputes and conflicts for centuries. Annexed by France in the 17th century, Alsace was claimed by the new German Empire in 1871, following France's defeat in the 1870 war. Alsace thus became German, and the Prussian Empire prioritized volume production, leading to a decline in viticulture, amplified by diseases such as phylloxera. After the Great War (World War I), the region reverted to French rule following the armistice of November 11, 1918. The return of the region to the French fold led to the creation of the appellation “Vins d'Alsace”, until Alsace became German again with the occupation of the Reich's armies in May 1940. Today, Alsace is part of France, but the Germanic influence is still present. Since 1962, with the creation of the AOC Alsace, followed by Crémant d'Alsace in 1976, and the introduction of the Alsace Grand Cru appellation in 1983, the AOCs have become very diversified, enhancing the value of the terroirs. Alsace is distinguished by its geological diversity, with mountains, hills and plains all influencing the quality of its wines. This variety of soils confers unique characteristics on each grape variety, enriching the diversity of Alsatian wines.

 APPELLATION HIERARCHY AND CLASSIFICATION

Alsace wines are classified according to the quality of their terroir and the restrictive production rules applied to them. Alsace has 53 appellations, including AOP Alsace, AOP Alsace Grands Crus and AOP Crémant d'Alsace, along with various indications and grape varieties... For a clearer understanding, here's a deciphering of this classification, unique in France.

THE AOP Alsace

Created in 1962, this appellation represents 74% of total Alsace production, 92% of which is white wine. The first level in the hierarchy of Alsace wines, it can also be accompanied by other quality criteria:

Grape variety: if a wine is made from a single grape variety (Sylvaner, Pinot Blanc, Riesling, Muscat, Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Noir or Savagnin), this may appear on the label. In the case of a blend, the term “Edelzwicker” may be used, “Zwicker” meaning “blend” and “Edel” referring to the presence of noble grape varieties. This is to be distinguished from the “Gentil” label, which indicates a high-quality blend of at least 50% Riesling, Muscat, Pinot Gris and/or Gewurztraminer.

Geographical location: the AOC name can be supplemented by a local geographical denomination or a locality name. They are the sign of specific and restrictive production rules. 11 communes are concerned by the communal name. For lieux-dits, the rules are even stricter. These are truly special terroirs that give the wine its fruitiness and minerality.

THE AOP Alsace Grands Crus

These 51 terroirs - which have been delimited according to geological and climatic criteria - are the best in the region. They combine unique microclimates, complex soils and often impressive slopes. Created in 1975, they are in fact inspired by the historic nuclei of production and will only be recognized as appellations in 2011. They account for 4% of total production.

THE AOP Crémant d’Alsace

Produced by secondary fermentation, these sparkling wines seduce with their vivacity and delicacy. They were granted appellation status in 1975, and today represent 21% of the region's production. Generally made from Pinot Blanc grapes, they can also benefit from the aromas of Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Riesling and Chardonnay.

Labels « Vendanges tardives » & « Sélections de Grains nobles »

Complementing the appellations on the label, they symbolize some of the strictest production methods of any AOP. These exceptional wines are voluptuous and rich, with a complex aromatic palette. Vendanges Tardives” refers to Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Riesling or Muscat grapes that have been harvested at over-ripeness. This presupposes the presence of noble rot (or Botrytis Cinerea) and high concentration. Sélection de Grains Nobles” involves successive selections of these overripe grapes. The identity of the grape variety is more discreet, and the wines are amazingly long.

ALSACE AND ITS EMBLEMATIC VINES

Unlike other French wine-growing regions, Alsace is the only French wine-growing region to focus on varietal wines, i.e. to name its wines after the grape varieties of which they are made. The labels, typically similar to German labels, will therefore highlight the grape variety. In Alsace, there are seven grape varieties, but the most popular are Riesling, Sylvaner, Gewurztraminer and Muscat, followed by Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir. Auxerrois is also planted, and forms the common base for many sparkling Alsace crémants. Three of them are therefore omnipresent in terms of production spread across Alsace's winegrowing estates.

The Riesling

Along with Sylvaner, Riesling is one of Alsace's latest ripening grape varieties. It stands out for its ability to reach maturity at low temperatures, which enables it to develop highly distinctive organoleptic qualities. It gives rise to fine wines with strong character, both elegant and fruity, with body and fine acidity. Harvested late, this grape variety offers the possibility of producing more or less mellow wines, always very harmonious. Riesling remains the favorite wine of Alsatians, who like to pair it with their region's most typical dish: sauerkraut. It also goes perfectly with seafood.

The Gewurztraminer

Formerly known as Traminer, Gewurztraminer is an early variety, easily recognized by its small, pink to light-red berries. When harvested late, Gewurztraminer produces full-bodied, well-structured wines with spicy notes and exotic fruits such as lychee. It is often associated with spicy Asian cuisine, strong cheeses and traditional foie gras.

The Sylvaner

Originally from Austria, this grape variety is easily identified by the green color it displays when ripe. Sylvaner is particularly sensitive to frost. Much of its production is blended with other varieties, notably Pinot Blanc to produce Edelwicker. Wines made from Sylvaner are very convivial. Both fresh and light, they express subtle floral aromas and great vivacity. Renowned for their thirst-quenching qualities, they are a popular summer wine, and go wonderfully with shellfish.

GRAPE VARIETY EXPRESSION IN ALSACE WINES

Alsace wines tend to focus on their primary fruit aromas (varietal aromas) rather than the oak characteristics of the barrels used for ageing. This means that wines are often traditionally kept in old foudres, incapable of transmitting the characteristics of new wood. Traditionally, old oval barrels called cuves are used. These are sometimes over a hundred years old (most of them carved on the front) and are literally embedded in the cellars.

Beyond this general characteristic, Alsace's different grape varieties tend to have very different styles. Riesling reigns supreme in Alsace, and its style is typically dry. This contrasts with the residual sugar found in many German Rieslings. Alsatian Riesling also tends to be chaptalized (sugar added before fermentation) to increase alcohol content. Alsace also offers the possibility of producing superb sweet wines, labelled Vendanges Tardives or Sélection de Grains Nobles (rarer and generally made from botrytized grapes). Gewurztraminer is the most commonly used grape variety for late harvest wines. Indeed, it makes it easier to obtain high sugar levels. These wines are renowned for their exotic, heady aromas and clean, elegant flavors.     

ALSACE WITHOUT CHÂTEAUX, BUT A LAND OF DOMAINS AND CELLARS

Alsace wines are distinguished by their production in cellars rather than “châteaux”, with an emphasis on terroir. Emblematic estates include Domaine Trimbach, known for its great Rieslings, and Zind-Humbrecht, which stands out for its wines made from biodynamically farmed vines. And let's not forget Hugel & Fils, which produces elegant wines. Another important property is Domaine Weinbach, renowned for its biodynamic vinification. In the biodynamic department, Domaine André Ostertag and Domaine Albert Mann shine with their Grands Crus. In addition, Alsace's cooperative wineries, such as Wolfberger and Bestheim, produce top-quality Crémants d'Alsace.

LIST OF CONTROLLED APPELLATIONS OF ORIGIN

Alsace Chasselas ou Gutedel

Alsace Edelzwicker

Alsace Gewurztraminer

Alsace Grand Cru

Alsace Klevener-de-Heiligenstein

Alsace Muscat

Alsace Pinot Blanc ou Klevner

Alsace Pinot Gris

Alsace Pinot Noir

Alsace Riesling

Alsace Sylvaner

Crémant d’Alsace

Alsace's vineyards boast 53 appellations, including 51 Grands Crus spread over several communes. This recognition of the best terroirs (exposure, slope of the plots, geological characteristics) in Grands Crus zones, more or less similar to that of Burgundy, dates back to the 11th century. However, it was only between 1975 and 2007 that the regulations governing these areas became more precise, with decrees guaranteeing the authorized grape varieties (4 varieties), planting densities, plot elevations and soil typicity. Considered as micro-terroirs, these Grands Crus represent only 5% of Alsace's vineyard production, but concentrate the nec plus ultra of Alsace wines. Among these Grands Crus are some of the most famous parcel-based production areas:

Altenberg de Bergbieten

Gloeckelberg

Kirchberg de Barr

Altenberg de Bergheim

Goldert

Kirchberg de Ribeauvillé

Altenberg de Wolxheim

Graffenreben

Kitterlé

Brand

Hatschbourg

Mambourg

Eichberg

Hengst

Marckrain

Engelberg

Kanzlerberg

Moenchberg

Florimont

Kastelberg

Ollwiller

Frankstein

Kessler

Osterberg

Geisberg

Pfersigberg

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WINE TRAIL

Created in 1953, the Alsace Wine Route stretches 170 km from Marlenheim to Thann, passing through more than 70 picturesque villages such as Riquewihr, Eguisheim, Kaysersberg and Ribeauvillé. Known for its enchanting landscapes, vine-covered hills and Vosges mountains in the background, it offers an immersion in Alsatian culture. Emblematic grape varieties include Riesling, Gewurztraminer and Pinot Gris, accompanying the Grands Crus and Crémants d'Alsace. In addition to tastings in family-run cellars, visitors can explore medieval villages, castles (such as Haut-Koenigsbourg) and take part in harvest festivals and Christmas markets. Visit in spring for festivals, in autumn for grape harvests or in winter for markets, this route is a must for wine and heritage lovers.

STRASBOURG

Strasbourg is the most important city in Alsace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city center is located on the Grande. In the heart of its cobbled streets, visit Strasbourg Cathedral and the city's lively districts. In the streets of the historic Petite France district, stroll and admire colorful traditional houses like the famous half-timbered Maison des Tanneurs. Last but not least, take a mini-cruise on board a boat on the River Ill.

CATHEDRALE NOTRE DAME DE STRASBOURG

Notre-Dame Cathedral in Strasbourg, Alsace, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. During the Reformation, it was at the heart of religious debates, housing bishops linked to the province of Mainz until the Concordat of 1801. Since then, it has been dedicated exclusively to Roman Catholic worship.

ALSACIAN MUSEUM

Strasbourg's Musée Alsacien is dedicated to Alsatian culture and traditions. Housed in several half-timbered houses dating back to the 16th century, the museum boasts a diverse collection showing the way of life of the region's inhabitants over the centuries. You'll find everyday objects, traditional costumes, antique furniture and local crafts. It's the perfect place to discover the heritage and traditions of Alsace's history...

BARRAGE VAUBAN

The Vauban Dam, located in Strasbourg, Alsace, is a historic 17th-century building designed by the military engineer Vauban. This defensive structure was once used to protect towns by flooding the plains during attacks. Today, it's a landmark with a panoramic view of the covered bridge and Petite France from its roof. A must-see if you want to discover Strasbourg's historic heritage.

PARC DE L’ORANGERIE

The Parc de l'Orangerie in Strasbourg, Alsace, is a spectacular 26-hectare green space, perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature. Built in the 18th century, the château is surrounded by century-old trees, flowerbeds and ponds. It's an ideal spot for hiking, boating and picnics. The park is also known for its Josephine Pavilion, a romantic little cottage, and its zoo, home to a small number of local animals. One of the city's most beautiful parks, it is popular with locals and tourists alike.

LE CHATEAU DU HAUT KOENIGSBOURG

Situated 757 meters above the town of Orschwiller, Château du Haut Koenigsbourg offers spectacular views over the Alsatian plains. It is the region's most famous and most visited monument. After being destroyed in 1633 during the Thirty Years' War, it was abandoned for a long period. In 1900, Kaiser Wilhelm carried out a complete restoration. Since then, it has welcomed over 500,000 visitors every year, eager to immerse themselves in the history and world of chivalry.

COLMAR CAPITALE DES VINS D’ALSACE

The charming Alsace town of Colmar lies at the foot of the Vosges mountains, in the heart of the Alsace vineyards. Thanks to its favorable climate, it is known as the wine capital of Alsace. On the wine route, stop off in Colmar to taste great wines and admire magnificent vineyard landscapes. The town itself is well worth a visit for its rich architectural heritage. Discover the picturesque canals and covered markets of Colmar's emblematic Petite Venise.

LE MUSEUM UNTERLINDEN

The Musée Unterlinden in Colmar, Alsace, is one of the region's most famous museums. Housed in a former 13th-century monastery, it boasts a vast collection of art from the Middle Ages to the present day. The Issenheim Altar is particularly famous for masterpieces by the artist Matthias Grünewald. These are complemented by collections of archaeological finds, sculptures, paintings and decorative arts, providing a comprehensive and diverse overview of Alsatian and European art history.

MULHOUSE

Mulhouse, located in the Haut-Rhin department of Alsace, is a city with a rich industrial past. It is famous for its impressive museums, including the Musée de l'Automobile, home to the world's largest collection of cars, and the Musée ferroviaire, Europe's largest railway museum. You can also discover the charming town center lined with colorful houses, the Place de la Réunion and the Renaissance-style town hall. Mulhouse is a destination where history, culture and innovation meet.

RIBEAUVILLE

Ribeauvillé, a charming little town in the Alsace region, is located in the heart of the Alsace vineyards on the famous wine route. Known for its medieval charm, it boasts picturesque streets, colorful half-timbered houses and castle ruins overlooking the town. Ribeauvillé is also famous for its wines, especially its Grands Crus. It's an ideal destination for lovers of nature, heritage and gastronomy.

VIEILLE VILLE D’EGUISHEIM

The old town of Eguisheim in Alsace is one of the most beautiful in the region. Classified as “France's most beautiful village”, this charming medieval village is famous for its narrow streets, colorful half-timbered houses and traditional architecture. The village is built around a castle, and the spiral streets surrounding the historic center give it its unique character. Eguisheim is also famous for its wine, particularly Alsace wine, which offers visitors a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

GASTRONOMY AND WINE TASTING

Alsace is a region renowned for its traditional cuisine, and the reputation of its gastronomy is well established thanks to a number of Michelin-starred establishments, typical winstubs and exceptional wines. Here are a few addresses where you can discover its gastronomy and enjoy an unforgettable tasting experience: