Alsace Wine Guide: Elegance and Authenticity in Every Glass

Few regions can boast an identity as strong as Alsace. Located in northeast France, between the Vosges mountains and the Rhine, this wine region is known for its exceptional terroir and expressive white wines, recognised for their purity and minerality. 

This guide will explore the most representative grape varieties, their originations, and the best pairings to enjoy these wines as a complete gastronomic experience.

The Alsace terroir: climate and soil

Alsace enjoys a semi-continental climate with hot summers and dry autumns, ideal for grape ripening. Its proximity to the Vosges creates a microclimate protected from the rain, allowing wine production with an unrivalled aromatic concentration. 

As for the soils, the region presents a remarkable diversity:

• Granite and schist, which bring freshness and minerality to the wines.
• Clay and limestone, responsible for structure and body.
• Sandstone and marl, which favour a balanced ripening of the grapes.

Thanks to this combination, Alsace wines have a unique authenticity, clearly reflecting the terroir they come from. The region's geology is so varied that more than a dozen soil types can be found in a single vineyard, contributing to the great diversity of styles within the appellation.

Grape varieties and their personality

Alsace is a land of great white wines, where each grape variety expresses its character clearly:

• Riesling: the jewel in the crown of Alsace. Dry, vibrant and mineral, with notes of lime, green apple and flint. Perfect with seafood. It ages elegantly, developing nuances of kerosene and nuts.
• Gewürztraminer: exuberant and spicy, with aromas of lychee, roses and ginger. Its smoothness makes it ideal for strong cheeses and spicy food. They tend to have a long, silky finish on the palate.
• Pinot Gris: complex and structured, with hints of ripe fruit, smoke and honey. An excellent accompaniment to white meats and creamy dishes. In sweeter versions, it can develop an incredible depth of flavour.
• Muscat: fresh and fragrant, evoking freshly picked grapes and white flowers. Enjoyed as an aperitif or with asparagus. There are drier versions and others with a subtle sweetness.
• Pinot Blanc: versatile and light, notable for its freshness and balance. Pairs well with poultry, salads and mild cheeses. Often compared to young Chardonnays.
• Sylvaner: dry and refreshing, with subtle herbaceous and fruity notes. It is the perfect accompaniment to seafood and light dishes, although it has traditionally been undervalued.
• Pinot Noir: the only red grape in the region, used for fresh reds and delicate rosés. With global warming, more structured versions are being produced.

It is one of the oldest and most prestigious wine routes in France, with local festivals and traditional markets throughout the year.

Buying and conservation advice

• Choose according to the occasion: Riesling and Pinot Blanc for every day, Grand Cru for special moments.
• Storage: store in a dark and cool place, with bottles stored horizontally to prevent cork oxidation.
• Serving: Alsatian whites shine between 8-12°C, while Crémants are best enjoyed well chilled (6-8°C).
• Ageing: Riesling and Pinot Gris can improve with age, while Gewürztraminer usually reaches its full potential in a shorter period.

From the mineral elegance of Riesling to the opulence of Gewürztraminer, Alsace wines offer a universe of aromas and flavours. 

If you would like to explore these authentic wines, we have a carefully selected range of the region's finest labels in our online shop. Discover Alsace, glass in hand.

FAQs

What does the term ‘Grand Cru’ mean in relation to Alsace wine?

‘Grand Cru’ refers to specific vineyards in Alsace that have been recognised for their exceptional quality. These wines are subject to strict regulations and tend to offer more complex flavour profiles.

What is the best way to taste Alsace wines?

To fully enjoy Alsace wines, it is recommended to serve them at the right temperature, between 8-10°C for whites. It is also ideal to use suitable wine glasses that allow you to appreciate their aromas.

How does the climate influence wine production in Alsace?

Alsace has a continental climate characterised by warm summers and cold winters. This climate favours the ripening of the grapes and allows for the production of wines with high acidity and ageing potential.

Are sparkling wines produced in Alsace?

Yes, Alsace produces sparkling wines known as Crémant d'Alsace. These wines are made using the traditional method and are recognised for their quality and fine bubbles.

What is the most famous winery in Alsace?

The most famous winery in Alsace is Domaine Zind-Humbrecht, renowned for its biodynamic viticulture and exceptional Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, and Muscat. With prestigious Grand Cru vineyards like Clos Saint Urbain (Rangen de Thann), the estate produces wines of great complexity, minerality, and aging potential. Led by Olivier Humbrecht, the first French Master of Wine (MW), Zind-Humbrecht is a benchmark for high-quality Alsace wines. Other notable wineries include Domaine Weinbach, Trimbach, and Albert Boxler.