Nestled in the northeastern corner of France, bordering Germany and Switzerland, lies the picturesque region of Alsace. Known for its charming villages, colorful half-timbered houses, and breathtaking landscapes, Alsace is also home to one of the most renowned wine routes in the world – the Alsace Wine Route.
Stretching over 170 kilometers, the Alsace Wine Route meanders through the scenic countryside, passing by hundreds of wineries and vineyards along the way. It is a journey filled with history, traditions, and of course, the delicious wines of Alsace. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the fascinating world of the Alsace Wine Route, from its history and origins to the best wineries and wines to try.
History and Origins of the Alsace Wine Route
The history of wine production in Alsace dates back to the Roman times, with evidence of vineyards dating back to the 2nd century. Over the centuries, the region has gone through numerous political changes, shifting between German and French control, which has greatly influenced the wine production and culture.
It wasn’t until the 19th century that the idea of establishing an official wine route in Alsace came to light. In 1825, a guidebook called “Voyage sur les Vignobles et les Vins d’Alsace” (Journey through the Vineyards and Wines of Alsace) was published, sparking the interest of travelers to explore the region’s wine-growing villages. However, it wasn’t until the 1950s that the Alsace Wine Route, known as “Route des Vins d’Alsace” in French, was officially established.
The Route: From Strasbourg to Mulhouse
The Alsace Wine Route starts in the city of Marlenheim, located just 20 kilometers west of Strasbourg, and ends in the town of Thann, about 16 kilometers north of Mulhouse. The entire route can be divided into three main sections – Northern, Central, and Southern – each offering a unique experience and showcasing different styles of wines.
Northern Section
The Northern section of the Alsace Wine Route is considered the “classic” route and is the most popular among visitors. It covers approximately 60 kilometers, passing through the villages of Marlenheim, Obernai, Barr, and Andlau, to name a few.
One of the highlights of this section is the village of Obernai, with its medieval narrow streets and traditional half-timbered houses. It is also home to one of the oldest wineries in Alsace, Domaine André Ostertag, renowned for its biodynamic wines. Another must-visit village in the Northern section is Andlau, known for its charming castle and prestigious wineries such as Domaine Philippe Kientzler and Domaine Jacques Bollinger.
Central Section
The Central section of the route covers around 50 kilometers and features the villages of Dambach-la-Ville, Ribeauvillé, and Riquewihr. This section is known for its Grand Cru vineyards, producing some of the most elegant and high-quality wines in Alsace.
In Ribeauvillé, visitors can explore the historic Château de Saint-Ulrich and enjoy wine tastings at Domaine Jean-Marc Bernhard. Riquewihr, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Alsace Wine Route,” is a charming village surrounded by vine-covered hills and home to several renowned wineries, including Domaine Louis Sipp and Dopff & Irion.
Southern Section
The Southern section, covering approximately 60 kilometers, is the longest but most scenic part of the Alsace Wine Route. It takes visitors through the towns of Eguisheim, Turckheim, and Guebwiller, among others.
Eguisheim, with its circular streets and colorful houses adorned with flowers, is considered one of the most beautiful villages in France. Here, visitors can enjoy wine tastings at Domaine Albert Seltz and Château Saint-Léon. Turckheim, a medieval village with a well-preserved city wall, is home to the celebrated winery Domaine Weinbach. And in Guebwiller, wine lovers can explore the prestigious Grand Cru vineyards and visit renowned wineries such as Domaine Paul Blanck and Domaine Fernand Engel.
Best Wineries to Visit on the Alsace Wine Route
The Alsace Wine Route is home to over 1,000 wineries, each offering a unique experience and exceptional wines. Here are some of the must-visit wineries for a true taste of Alsace’s wine culture.
Domaine Weinbach
Located in the charming village of Kaysersberg, Domaine Weinbach is a family-owned winery that has been producing award-winning wines for generations. The winery’s philosophy is to create wines that reflect the terroir of Alsace, with a focus on sustainability and organic farming. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyards and cellars and enjoy tastings of their elegant and well-balanced wines.
Domaine Zind-Humbrecht
The Zind-Humbrecht family has been producing wines in Alsace for over 400 years, creating a legacy that is carried on by the current generation. Their winery, located in the village of Turckheim, is known for its biodynamic farming practices and producing some of the most sought-after wines in Alsace. From Riesling to Gewürztraminer, the wines of Domaine Zind-Humbrecht always receive top ratings and critical acclaim.
Domaine Marcel Deiss
Domaine Marcel Deiss, located in the village of Bergheim, is a pioneer in biodynamic and terroir-driven winemaking in Alsace. The winery produces a variety of wines, including traditional single-varietal wines and unique cuvées that are carefully crafted to express the specific terroir of each vineyard. Visitors are welcomed to explore the vineyards and taste their diverse and complex wines.
Must-Try Wines on the Alsace Wine Route
The Alsace Wine Route is known for its white wines, which make up over 90% of the region’s production. Here are some of the top wines to try when visiting the route.
Riesling
Considered the king of Alsace wines, Riesling is a dry and versatile white wine that pairs well with a variety of dishes. It is known for its vibrant acidity, complex flavors, and mineral notes. The best Rieslings on the Alsace Wine Route can be found in the villages of Riquewihr, Bergheim, and Hunawihr.
Gewürztraminer
Another famous white wine from Alsace, Gewürztraminer, is characterized by its intense aromas of lychee, rose, and spices. It is usually sweeter than Riesling, making it a perfect pairing for spicy Asian dishes or strong cheeses. Domaine Zind-Humbrecht and Domaine Weinbach are known for their exceptional Gewürztraminers.
Pinot Gris
Produced from the same grape as Pinot Grigio, Pinot Gris from Alsace has a fuller body, richer texture, and more complex flavors. It is commonly known as “Tokay d’Alsace” and is often aged in oak barrels, giving it a slight smoky note. Pinot Gris pairs well with rich and creamy dishes, making it a perfect wine to enjoy with Alsatian cuisine.
Conclusion
The Alsace Wine Route offers an unparalleled wine experience, with its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and exceptional wines. Whether you are a wine enthusiast or simply looking for an enchanting journey through the French countryside, the Alsace Wine Route should definitely be on your travel bucket list. So, pack your bags, grab a glass of wine, and embark on a journey to explore the hidden gems of Alsace. Santé!
