The Allure of Alsace: A Region Full of Hidden Treasures

One of the most northern wine regions in France, Alsace is full of jaw-dropping architecture and natural beauty. Boarded by the Rhine river, Alsace has a diverse terroir and one which really makes wine from this region special.

The region is small and runs for just 75 miles, averaging around 3 miles wide. Situated in the foothills of the Vosges Mountains, the area enjoys a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. The vines are well exposed to the sun in this region, which suits the slow ripening of the grapes. Rain here is limited as the region sits in what is known as the rain shadow of the Vosges mountains. Winemakers have therefore developed ways to facilitate water retention such as growing grass around the vines.

Above all else, the one thing which allows the vines to thrive here is the soil. With such diversity in soil types, a number of different grapes can grow happily here. The areas on the gentle slopes towards the bottom of the mountains are based on riverbed soils making them rich in nutrients, and therefore these areas are the most sought after in the region, often producing some of the most loved vinos.

The terroir is not the only thing that makes Alsace wine so exceptional. In fact, arguably the most important reason to love vino from this region is because of the people. Many of the winemakers in Alsace are from families who have been involved in winemaking for centuries. Each have developed their own style to produce a diverse range of wines, whilst respecting the land, region, and community.

The aim of all winemakers here is to use their many years of expertise to produce the very best vino that showcases the fruit of this terroir. And it’s fair to say they are doing an exceptional job at it. The elegant whites of this region have a real authenticity about them which allows the quality to shine through.

When it comes to the grape varieties grown in this region, think aromatic whites. Alsace Riesling is a great place to start as it’s the most grown grape here and produces some of the best wine from within the area. Alsace Riesling is dry and full-bodied with a richness that’s exceptionally smooth. You can expect floral hints with plenty of green fruit notes and a mild spiciness. Some of the best examples are aged, allowing them to develop slight aromas of petrol. This gives them a great complexity.

Alsace Gewurztraminer is another classic which has originated from this region, and is now the second most grown grape here after Riesling. Aromatic notes are balanced with exotic fruity flavours such as lychee, passion fruit and mango. Full-bodied and low in acidity, this white is generally unoaked, and has a richness to it, typical of whites from this region. Gewurztraminer can be a difficult grape to grow, but if anyone is up to the challenge it’s wine makers from Alsace.

Another favourite from this part of the world is Alsace Pinot Gris. The style of Pino Gris produced here is full-bodied and rich with low acidity and high alcohol. An almost oily texture helps add to the body and complexity of this wine making it unique. The way it is grown can dramatically impact the flavour and New World countries are constantly looking to replicate the conditions used in Alsace in an attempt to produce a Pinot Gris of similar quality. However, its undeniable that the best still comes from this region.

For many years whites have taken centre stage in Alsace, and this is still the case to a certain extent. However, nowadays if red is more your thing then you are in luck – the popularity of Pinot Noir among winemakers in this region is growing. Pinot Noir is the only black grape certified to be grown here and the wines produced from it are nothing short of brilliant.

Alsace Pinot Noir is light and fruity, full of raspberry and cherry flavours, however that trademark spiciness that’s common in most wines here is also noticeable. And the great thing about Pinot Noir from this region is that despite its excellent quality, prices have remained affordable. In fact, it’s fair to say this is similar for many wines from this region. So, the next time you are looking for something a little special but extremely affordable, Alsatian wine should certainly be at the top of your list.

Pairing whites from Alsace with food is made simple by their versatility. In fact, the full-body and warmth of these whites means some can almost be treated like a red. Not only that, but the aromatic nature makes them the perfect match for flavoursome Asian cuisine, or something a little spicy.

If you are a fan of fish, then Alsace Riesling is the way to go. A delicious fillet of salmon (or white fish if you would rather) in a creamy sauce is a match made in heaven. The full body of the wine will balance with the richness of the cream, whilst the dryness compliments the fish, creating a perfect combination.

If you are looking for a meatier option, duck with Alsace Gewurztraminer is a brilliant start. The floral aromas and acidity contrast with the fattiness of the meat, creating the perfect balance on the palate. Using the duck in a Thai duck curry is also a perfect match with Alsace Gewurztraminer, as the spiciness of the curry complements the spicy notes in the wine creating a fusion of flavour, whilst the dryness will leave you feeling refreshed.

The main thing to remember is these wines are exceptionally versatile so if you would rather a Chinese chicken dish or perhaps looking for something to complement a strong cheese board, a white from Alsace will be sure to do the trick. And, of course, if red meat is your thing, then an Alsace Pinot Noir is a superb option.

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