Alsace is a wine-growing region located in eastern France, along the Rhine River, between the Alsace Plain and the Vosges Mountains. Although relatively small in size, it is distinguished by a wide variety of grape varieties and wine styles. The region primarily produces white wines, but it also offers reds, rosés, and sparkling wines, ranging from dry to sweet.

A long, narrow vineyard

The Alsace wine region covers approximately 15,600 hectares, spread across 119 municipalities, forming a narrow strip running north to south. It enjoys a temperate continental climate, shielded from oceanic influences by the Vosges Mountains. This location provides dry summers, long autumns, and cold winters, conditions that are ideal for the gradual ripening of the grapes.

The soils are highly varied: limestone, sandstone, granite, schist, and gneiss. This geological diversity allows the grape varieties to express themselves in very different ways depending on the specific plots and regions.

Iconic grape varieties of Alsace

Thirteen grape varieties are authorized in the Alsace AOC, including twelve white and one red. The main varieties grown are:

• Riesling: a dry, lively, and aromatic wine with notes of citrus, flowers, and minerality

• Pinot Blanc: a smooth, well-balanced wine with aromas of white fruit and flowers

• Gewürztraminer: a full-bodied, highly aromatic wine with notes of rose, lychee, and spices

• Pinot Gris: a more full-bodied wine with notes of yellow fruit, dried fruit, and sometimes honey

• Sylvaner: a fresh, light wine with floral and fruity aromas

• Muscat: a dry, expressive wine with aromas of fresh grapes

• Pinot Noir: the region’s only red grape variety, producing fruity wines with low tannins

• Klevener de Heiligenstein (Pink Savagnin): a rare grape variety that produces aromatic, full-bodied wines

White wines account for the vast majority of Alsace's wine production.

Alsace Wine Regions

The region is organized into several appellations:

• AOC Alsace, which accounts for the majority of production

• AOC Crémant d’Alsace, for white and rosé sparkling wines

• AOC Alsace Grand Cru, reserved for vineyards renowned for the quality of their terroir

One distinctive feature of Alsace is that the name of the grape variety must be listed on the label, making it easier to read and choose wines.

Food and Wine Pairings from Alsace

Alsace wines are incredibly versatile at the table.
Riesling pairs well with fish, seafood, and traditional dishes like sauerkraut.
Gewürztraminer pairs well with foie gras, strong cheeses, or spicy dishes.
Sylvaner pairs well with cold cuts and simple dishes.
Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris pair well with poultry and cream-based dishes.
Pinot Noir pairs well with both light red meat and as an aperitif.

Alsace Wineries to Discover

This selection highlights wineries that exemplify the diversity of Alsatian styles:

• Domaine Marcel Deiss

• Jean-Pierre Rietsch

• Julien Meyer

• Vincent Stoeffler

These regions offer a chance to explore Alsace through wines with a variety of profiles, perfect for both new explorers and regular wine enthusiasts.

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