WINE TOURS IN ALSACE

Alsace wines and appellations

Alsace produces wines that are closely tied to grape varieties, which is why, unlike most other French wine regions, the wines are labelled by grape variety. You’ve probably heard of varieties like Riesling, Pinot Gris and Muscat but the other famous varieties include Sylvaner, Chasselas and Gewürztraminer, which is renowned for its intense, aromatic profile. In addition to wines labelled by variety, there are AOC Alsace, AOC Alsace Grand Cru and AOC Crémant d’Alsace (sparkling wines). In short, it is said that wines from Alsace are a blend of French elegance and German precision.

What’s cooking in Alsace?

On VINOTRIP wine tours, if local or traditional is what you’re after, your hosts will most likely suggest a glass of Gewürztraminer, which pairs wonderfully with sauerkraut or a strong cheese like Munster. A glass of Alsace Chasselas is an unbeatable choice with the local tarte flambée known as flammekueche. Riesling wines are versatile, and their aromatic, often high-acid profiles make them a great match for spicy Asian cuisine or seafood and chicken dishes. And as an aperitif or with a light dessert, a Crémant d’Alsace is a must! For lighter dishes, like fresh salads, a Muscat is always an excellent choice.

Alsace tour highlights

There are plenty of things to admire along Alsace’s 170-kilometer wine route – the oldest in France – such as the traditional half-timbered houses. If you stay in Strasbourg before or after visiting the vineyards, make sure to visit the Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg. Another favourite is Colmar, located in the heart of the Alsatian vineyards, with its especially sunny climate that is ideal for winegrowing. You can wander down the cobblestone streets in the well-preserved old town, or view its architectural landmarks as you go on a boat ride down the River Lauch. And if you’re visiting at the right time of year, the region’s Christmas markets are also a major highlight, showcasing local arts and crafts.

Getting to Alsace

By plane: Direct flights from London to Strasbourg take just 1 hour 40 minutes and then a shuttle train between the airport and the city centre only takes another 8 minutes! Other flights, all under 2 hours, are available from Amsterdam, Berlin, Rome, Barcelona and Madrid.

By train: the best way to get from England to Alsace is by train via Paris. Take the high-speed train (TGV) from the Paris Gare de l’Est station to reach Strasbourg in under 2 hours.

By car: Alsace’s motorways provide easy access if you plan to drive to the Alsatian vineyards from Germany (Frankfurt: 2 hr 15), Switzerland (Zurich: 1 hr 30), or even Brussels (4 hr 30), Milan (4 hr 30) or Vienna (8 hr 30).