Alsace - Wines
Riesling
Riesling is the flagship grape of Alsace, producing wines that are dry, elegant, and intensely aromatic. Alsace Rieslings are known for their bright acidity, mineral-driven profiles, and flavors of citrus, green apple, and white flowers. The region’s unique terroir, particularly in the Grand Cru vineyards, allows Riesling to fully express its character. These wines are versatile, pairing well with a wide range of foods, from seafood to Asian cuisine. Alsace Rieslings are also celebrated for their aging potential, with the best examples developing complexity over decades.
Gewürztraminer
Gewürztraminer is one of the most iconic and aromatic wines of Alsace, known for its powerful floral and spice notes. The wine is typically rich and full-bodied, with flavors of lychee, rose petals, and exotic spices. Alsace Gewürztraminer is often slightly off-dry, with a characteristic spiciness and lower acidity, making it an excellent pairing for spicy dishes, strong cheeses, and desserts. This wine is particularly celebrated in the Grand Cru vineyards, where the unique terroir enhances its complexity and depth.
Pinot Gris
Pinot Gris from Alsace is a rich, full-bodied wine with complex layers of flavor, ranging from ripe pear and honey to smoky and earthy notes. The wine often has a slightly off-dry character, with a round texture and a long finish. Alsace Pinot Gris is distinct from the lighter styles found in Italy and is prized for its versatility, pairing well with dishes like foie gras, roast poultry, and mushroom-based meals. The region’s varied terroirs, especially the Grand Cru sites, contribute to the depth and age-worthiness of these wines.
Muscat
Alsace Muscat is a fragrant and lively wine that stands out for its aromatic profile, featuring fresh notes of grape, orange blossom, and white peach. Unlike many sweet Muscats produced elsewhere, Alsace Muscat is typically dry, with a refreshing acidity and vibrant fruit character. It is an excellent aperitif wine and pairs beautifully with asparagus, salads, and light appetizers. The wine’s distinct floral and fruity bouquet makes it a delightful choice for those seeking a fragrant and refreshing white wine.
Sylvaner
Sylvaner is a traditional Alsace variety known for producing crisp, light-bodied wines with subtle fruit and floral notes. The wines are typically fresh and straightforward, with flavors of green apple, citrus, and herbs. Sylvaner from Alsace pairs well with seafood, charcuterie, and light dishes, making it a versatile choice for everyday enjoyment. While often overshadowed by the region’s more famous varieties, Sylvaner is appreciated for its easy-drinking style and food-friendly nature.
Pinot Blanc
Pinot Blanc is a versatile and approachable wine from Alsace, offering delicate flavors of apple, pear, and white flowers. The wine is typically dry, with a medium body and a smooth, balanced finish. Pinot Blanc is often used as a base for Crémant d'Alsace, the region’s sparkling wine, but it also shines as a still wine that pairs well with a wide range of dishes, including seafood, salads, and light poultry. Its refreshing acidity and subtle fruit make it a popular choice for casual meals and gatherings.
Pinot Noir
While Alsace is predominantly known for its white wines, Pinot Noir is the primary red grape of the region. Alsace Pinot Noir is typically light to medium-bodied, with bright red fruit flavors such as cherry and raspberry, along with hints of spice and earth. The cooler climate and diverse soils contribute to the wine’s freshness and finesse. Pinot Noir from Alsace is increasingly gaining recognition for its quality, with some producers focusing on more structured and complex styles. It pairs well with roasted meats, charcuterie, and soft cheeses.
Crémant d'Alsace
Crémant d'Alsace is a sparkling wine made using the traditional method, similar to Champagne. The wine is typically made from Pinot Blanc, but can also include Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Riesling, and Pinot Noir. Crémant d'Alsace is known for its fine bubbles, crisp acidity, and fresh flavors of apple, pear, and citrus. It is a popular choice for celebrations and pairs beautifully with a wide range of foods, from appetizers to desserts. The sparkling wines of Alsace are highly regarded for their quality and value, making them a staple in the region’s wine culture.
Edelzwicker
Edelzwicker is a traditional blend of multiple grape varieties from Alsace, typically including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Blanc, and Sylvaner. The name means ‘noble blend,’ and the wine is often light, fruity, and easy to drink. While historically considered a simple table wine, some producers are elevating Edelzwicker with higher-quality blends. It is an affordable and versatile wine that pairs well with casual meals, picnics, and social gatherings. The blend reflects Alsace’s tradition of creating harmonious wines that showcase the region’s diversity of grape varieties.
Vendange Tardive (Late Harvest)
Vendange Tardive wines are Alsace’s late-harvest treasures, made from grapes left to ripen longer on the vine. These wines are rich, luscious, and often sweet, with intense flavors of ripe fruit, honey, and spice. Vendange Tardive can be made from Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, or Muscat, and the best examples come from Grand Cru vineyards. These wines are perfect for pairing with foie gras, strong cheeses, or as a dessert wine. The extended ripening period gives the wines concentration and depth, making them a prized category in Alsace winemaking.
Sélection de Grains Nobles (Noble Rot Selection)
Sélection de Grains Nobles (SGN) wines are rare and luxurious sweet wines produced from grapes affected by noble rot (Botrytis cinerea). These wines are incredibly concentrated, with intense flavors of dried apricot, honey, and candied citrus. Made from Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, or Muscat, SGN wines are among the most sought-after in Alsace. They are ideal for special occasions and pair beautifully with rich desserts, blue cheese, or enjoyed on their own as a decadent treat. The meticulous production process and rarity of these wines make them a true expression of Alsace’s winemaking excellence.