Hit the road

Running between the Alsace plain and the slopes of the Vosges, the Alsace Wine Route stretches over 170 kilometers, winding through breathtaking landscapes and connecting a mosaic of picturesque villages, medieval castles, and prestigious vineyards. Established in 1953, this legendary route is a true sanctuary for wine lovers and epicureans seeking authentic and refined discoveries.

You will find at the end of the article our best addresses for a tasting near Saint-Amarin or further along your route.

Enchanting Landscapes

Traveling the Alsace Wine Route is an immersion into a palette of changing colors with the seasons. In spring, the vines are adorned with tender green, while in autumn, they transform into a golden and flaming carpet. The vineyard-covered hills offer stunning views of the Alsace plain, and on clear days, you can even see the Black Forest and the Alps in the distance.

The Alsace Wine Route is also a treasure of biodiversity and architectural heritage. The vines, cultivated for centuries, are integrated into a harmonious landscape where forests, meadows, and rivers blend together. Romanesque churches, half-timbered houses, and medieval ramparts testify to the region's rich and varied history.

Picturesque Villages and Medieval Castles

The Alsace Wine Route is dotted with villages that seem straight out of a fairy tale. The half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, flower-filled fountains, and historic churches constitute the timeless charm of these localities. Among the must-sees, Riquewihr, Eguisheim, and Ribeauvillé are top choices.

Riquewihr, often called "the pearl of the vineyard," is renowned for its well-preserved ramparts and colorful houses. Eguisheim, voted "Favorite Village of the French" in 2013, is a medieval gem with its concentric streets and half-timbered houses. Ribeauvillé, with its three castles overlooking the town, offers a panoramic view of the valley and is famous for its traditional festivals.

The castles, such as the Haut-Koenigsbourg, offer a deep dive into the region's medieval history. This magnificently restored fortress provides panoramic views of the Alsace plain and the Black Forest.

Tastings

Alsace is the birthplace of seven noble grape varieties: Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Noir, Muscat, and Sylvaner. Each variety expresses the richness and diversity of the Alsace terroirs, producing wines with varied aromas and characters.

Wine lovers will find their delight by visiting the numerous cellars and wine estates along the route. The winemakers, often true artists of wine, welcome you with passion and generosity to introduce you to their creations. The tastings are a unique opportunity to understand the subtleties of Alsace wines, from the minerality of Riesling to the opulence of Gewurztraminer.

The Grands Crus

Alsace has 51 Grands Crus, each representing the unique expression of an exceptional terroir. These vineyards, delineated according to rigorous geological and climatic criteria, produce wines of remarkable quality and complexity.

Among the most prestigious, Grand Cru Schlossberg is known for its highly refined Rieslings, while Grand Cru Rangen, the southernmost and one of the steepest vineyards, produces intense and powerful wines. A visit to the Grands Crus is a dive into the excellence and viticultural history of Alsace.

Gastronomy and Wine: A Perfect Marriage

The Alsace Wine Route is not only a feast for wine lovers but also a paradise for gourmets. The region is famous for its generous and flavorful cuisine that pairs perfectly with its wines.

The winstubs, these typical Alsatian taverns, offer a convivial atmosphere to enjoy traditional dishes such as choucroute garnie, baeckeoffe (a meat and vegetable stew), and tarte flambée. For a high-end gastronomic experience, numerous Michelin-starred restaurants dot the route, offering menus that highlight local products and Alsace wines.

Conclusion

Traveling the Alsace Wine Route is a unique experience, where each stop reveals a new facet of this region rich in treasures. Whether you are a wine enthusiast, a gourmet, a nature lover, or a history buff, the Alsace Wine Route has something to offer everyone. This sensory journey, at the heart of an enchanting landscape, is an invitation to discovery, meeting, and sharing. A charming and authentic escape, where time seems suspended, and every moment is a celebration of the Alsatian art of living.

If you are staying in Saint-Amarin, here are some nearby addresses:

Domaine Eugène Schnebelen et ses filles: Continuing the heritage of the prestigious Grand Cru Rangen. Mastering the land and the delicate art of winemaking, these wines are renowned for their specificity and exceptional technical quality. Discover the estate during a 30-minute guided walk followed by a tasting of Pinot Gris and Riesling in a beautiful Renaissance-style hut.
Domaine Schoffit: Renowned for its Grands Crus, particularly the Rangen de Thann. A family estate offering exceptional wines with an enriching visit to the vineyards.
Domaine Dirler-Cadé: Located in Bergholtz, this estate is famous for its biodynamic wines and commitment to environmentally friendly viticultural practices. Tastings are personalized and educational.
Vins Schoenheitz: In Wihr-au-Val, this estate offers a panoramic view of the Munster valley and expressive, balanced wines. The Schoenheitz family is known for their warm welcome and knowledgeable advice.
Domaine François Schmitt: Located in Orschwihr, this estate offers visits and tastings of authentic wines. Wine lovers will appreciate the diversity of grape varieties and the winemakers' passion.
Château d'Orschwihr: A historic estate with renowned wines and a magnificent setting. The château offers a complete wine tourism experience, with cellar tours and refined tastings.

And find below the addresses to discover further along the route:

Domaine Zind-Humbrecht: Located in Turckheim, this estate is renowned for its biodynamic wines and respect for the terroir. Tastings offer an in-depth exploration of Alsace's Grands Crus.
Maison Trimbach: Based in Ribeauvillé, this historic house has been producing exceptional wines since 1626. The visit and tasting are memorable experiences for any wine lover.
Domaine Weinbach: Located in Kaysersberg, this family estate is known for its elegant and complex wines. The guided tour and tasting allow you to discover a range of high-quality wines.
Domaine Marcel Deiss: In Bergheim, this estate is famous for its wines made from the complantation of grape varieties. The visit offers a unique perspective on the winemaking philosophy and innovative practices of Jean-Michel Deiss.