Nestled in the heart of northeastern France, the Alsace Wine Route offers visitors a tantalizing glimpse into the region’s rich winemaking heritage. This guided tour from Strasbourg takes guests on a captivating journey through three carefully selected wineries, where they’ll have the opportunity to sample the area’s renowned vintages, including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Sylvaner, and Pinot Blanc. As knowledgeable guides share insights into the unique terroir, climate, and history of Alsatian viticulture, travelers can expect to uncover the nuances that make these wines so exceptional. But the real surprise lies in the charming villages along the route, where the true essence of Alsace’s winemaking tradition comes to life.

This experience made our list of the 21 Best Guided Tours In Strasbourg.

Key Points

Alsace Wine Route Wineries & Tasting Small Group Guided Tour From Strasbourg - Key Points

  • Guided tour of the Alsace Wine Route from Strasbourg, visiting three carefully selected wineries along the scenic route.
  • Opportunity to sample renowned Alsatian wines, including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Sylvaner, and Pinot Blanc, and learn about the unique terroir and winemaking history.
  • Exploration of the picturesque village of Mittelbergheim, known for its exceptional Riesling wines and medieval architecture.
  • Visit to Dambach-la-Ville, the largest wine producer in the Alsace region, to learn about its rich winemaking heritage.
  • Highlights of the charming villages of Ribeauvillé and Riquewihr, with their Grand Cru vineyards, well-preserved architecture, and thriving local culture.

Alsace Wine Route Overview

The Alsace Wine Route, also known as the Routes des Vins d’Alsace, is a renowned wine trail that winds through the picturesque Alsatian countryside, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich winemaking heritage of the region.

This full-day tour from Strasbourg takes travelers along this scenic route, stopping at three carefully selected wineries to sample the area’s renowned wines, including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Sylvaner, and Pinot Blanc.

Guests will learn about the region’s distinct soil, climate, and winemaking history from knowledgeable guides, and visit charming villages like Mittelbergheim, Dambach-la-Ville, Ribeauvillé, and Riquewihr, which are renowned for their exceptional Grand Cru vineyards.

Winery Visits and Tastings

Alsace Wine Route Wineries & Tasting Small Group Guided Tour From Strasbourg - Winery Visits and Tastings

Along the scenic Alsace Wine Route, guests on this tour will visit three carefully selected wineries to sample the region’s renowned wines, including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Sylvaner, and Pinot Blanc.

At each winery, you’ll learn about the unique terroir, climate, and winemaking history that give these vintages their distinct character.

In the village of Mittelbergheim, you’ll discover why it’s known for its excellent Riesling.

The tour also takes you to Dambach-la-Ville, the largest wine producer in Alsace.

In the charming villages of Ribeauvillé and Riquewihr, you’ll explore five Grand Cru vineyards.

Throughout, your knowledgeable guide will share insights into the region’s vibrant wine culture.

Mittelbergheim Riesling Wines

Alsace Wine Route Wineries & Tasting Small Group Guided Tour From Strasbourg - Mittelbergheim Riesling Wines

One of the highlights of the Alsace Wine Route tour is a visit to Mittelbergheim, a picturesque village renowned for its exceptional Riesling wines.

Mittelbergheim’s unique terroir, defined by its limestone-rich soil and favorable microclimate, produces Rieslings with a distinctive minerality and vibrant acidity that are highly sought after by wine enthusiasts.

During the tour, visitors will have the opportunity to:

  1. Explore the quaint streets and medieval architecture of Mittelbergheim, which has been designated as one of France’s ‘Most Beautiful Villages.’

  2. Visit a family-owned winery, where they’ll learn about the region’s winemaking traditions and sample the acclaimed Rieslings.

  3. Discover the subtle nuances and complex flavors that make Mittelbergheim’s Riesling wines so unique and desirable.

Dambach-la-Ville Wine Production

Alsace Wine Route Wineries & Tasting Small Group Guided Tour From Strasbourg - Dambach-la-Ville Wine Production

As the largest wine producer in the Alsace region, Dambach-la-Ville boasts a rich winemaking heritage that has contributed significantly to the area’s renowned reputation.

The town’s favorable climate, coupled with its diverse soil compositions, enables the cultivation of a wide array of grape varieties, from the crisp and aromatic Rieslings to the full-bodied Pinot Noirs, all of which are meticulously crafted by the region’s passionate vintners.

Visitors to the town can explore its numerous family-owned wineries, where they’ll have the opportunity to learn about the intricate winemaking process and sample the distinct flavors that have made Alsatian wines so coveted worldwide.

With its historic charm and picturesque vineyards, Dambach-la-Ville embodies the essence of the Alsace wine region.

Ribeauvillé and Riquewihr Highlights

Alsace Wine Route Wineries & Tasting Small Group Guided Tour From Strasbourg - Ribeauvillé and Riquewihr Highlights

The charming villages of Ribeauvillé and Riquewihr, nestled in the heart of the Alsace Wine Route, boast a rich tapestry of history, architecture, and renowned Grand Cru vineyards that have captivated visitors for centuries.

These picturesque towns offer a glimpse into the region’s past, with:

  • Five Grand Cru vineyards within their boundaries, including the esteemed Riesling and Gewürztraminer grape varieties.
  • Beautifully preserved half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and medieval fortifications that transport visitors back in time.

The combination of these elements makes Ribeauvillé and Riquewihr must-visit destinations for any Alsace wine tour, providing a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.

These towns also offer a thriving local culture, with artisanal shops, delectable cuisine, and lively festivals celebrating the Alsatian wine and culinary traditions.

English-speaking Qualified Driver Guide

Alsace Wine Route Wineries & Tasting Small Group Guided Tour From Strasbourg - English-speaking Qualified Driver Guide

Guiding visitors on a captivating exploration of Alsace’s renowned wine region, the English-speaking qualified driver guide provides a wealth of knowledge and expertise throughout the tour.

Skillfully navigating the scenic Alsace Wine Route, the guide offers insightful commentary on the region’s soil, climate, and winemaking history.

With a deep understanding of the local wineries, the guide expertly leads the small group to three carefully selected vineyards, where guests can sample a variety of Alsatian wines, including the renowned Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Sylvaner, and Pinot Blanc.

Seamlessly blending transportation, tasting, and education, the qualified driver guide ensures a seamless and enriching wine tour experience for all participants.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

Alsace Wine Route Wineries & Tasting Small Group Guided Tour From Strasbourg - Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

Included in the comprehensive Alsace wine tour are three winery visits, where participants can sample a selection of the region’s renowned wines, such as Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Sylvaner, and Pinot Blanc.

Complementing the tasting experience, the tour also provides transport via an air-conditioned minivan and the expertise of an English-speaking qualified driver guide.

The tour inclusions are:

  1. Three wine tastings at local wineries.
  2. Air-conditioned minivan transportation.
  3. English-speaking qualified driver guide.

The tour doesn’t include meals, personal expenses, or gratuities. Participants should also note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and is reserved for adults only. A minimum of two adults is required for the tour to operate.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Alsace Wine Route Wineries & Tasting Small Group Guided Tour From Strasbourg - Booking and Cancellation Policy

Confirmation is provided at the time of booking for this Alsace wine tour, and a cancellation policy is in place. Customers can receive a full refund with 24-hour advance notice of their cancellation. This Alsace wine tour is an adult-only experience, and a minimum of 2 adults is required. The tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Booking Cancellation
Confirmation provided 24-hour notice for full refund
Minimum 2 adults required Adult-only tour
Not wheelchair accessible

The tour provider has designed this policy to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants. Advance notice allows them to effectively manage tour logistics and capacity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Wine on the Tour?

The tour does not allow guests to bring their own wine. Participants are expected to sample the wines provided by the wineries visited during the tour. Bringing outside wine would interfere with the experience and is not permitted.

Are There Any Food Options Available During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include any food options, but participants can purchase snacks or meals during stops at the villages along the Alsace Wine Route. There are several charming cafes and restaurants available to enjoy local cuisine and pair it with the wines tasted.

Can I Purchase Wine Directly From the Wineries?

Yes, visitors can typically purchase wine directly from the wineries visited on the tour. The tour includes wine tastings, and guests often have the opportunity to buy bottles of their favorite wines to take home.

Is There a Discount for Booking the Tour in Advance?

Yes, there’s typically a discount for booking the Alsace wine tour in advance. Many tour operators offer a reduced rate when you book the tour at least a few days prior to the departure date to secure your spot.

Can I Request a Specific Drop-Off Location at the End of the Tour?

Yes, you can request a specific drop-off location at the end of the tour. The tour company will accommodate your request, as long as it’s within the tour’s general area. Just let them know your preferred drop-off spot when you book the tour.

Recap

The Alsace Wine Route tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s rich winemaking heritage.

Visitors can sample renowned wines, discover the nuances of Alsatian viticulture, and explore picturesque villages like Mittelbergheim and Dambach-la-Ville.

With knowledgeable guides providing insights, the tour provides a well-rounded experience for wine enthusiasts seeking to enjoy the unique terroir and traditions of the Alsace region.