Strasbourg is famous for its wine culture and rich history, making it the perfect destination for wine lovers. The city is home to some of the best wine tasting experiences and vineyards in Europe, attracting numerous tourists every year. Let\’s explore Strasbourg\’s wine tasting scene and discover what makes it unique!

The wine industry in Strasbourg dates back to centuries ago when Alsace became an essential wine region in Europe. With over 1000 wineries and vineyards covering nearly 15,600 hectares of land, Strasbourg has a diverse range of wines to offer. The region\’s unique terroir, where French and German influences blend, produces some extraordinary wines that you can only taste in Strasbourg.

One of the essential wine events in Strasbourg is the World of Riesling, which celebrates the region\’s iconic grape variety. The event takes place each year in June and showcases some of the best Riesling wines from local wineries. Visitors can taste and learn about the history, production techniques, and different flavors of the wines from the experts.

The Caves Historiques des Hospices de Strasbourg is another must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts. The cave was previously used as a hospital and a wine barrel storage, but now it serves as a museum that showcases the Alsatian wine history and culture. You can learn about the vineyards, winemaking process, and enjoy wine tastings at the end of your tour.

If you want to explore the wine region on your own, take a day trip to the Alsace Wine Route, which is around 170 km long and covers 70 wine-growing villages. The route offers breathtaking views of the landscape and vineyards, and you can visit small wineries to taste their wines and learn about their production processes.

Strasbourg also hosts several wine fairs throughout the year. The oldest and most significant event is the Foire aux Vins d\’Alsace, which has been held since 1948. The fair runs for ten days, usually in August, and attracts nearly 250,000 visitors. You can taste more than 1200 different wines from local and international producers, enjoy live music and performances, and indulge in regional cuisine.

The wine industry in Strasbourg has undergone significant changes in recent years. Many winemakers have shifted their focus to produce organic and sustainable wines, reducing the use of chemicals and additives in their wines. The city is also embracing natural winemaking, which involves minimal intervention and respecting nature and the vineyards\’ natural balance. This trend has attracted a younger and more diverse audience while contributing to the region\’s sustainable development.

Straussbourg\’s Wine and Food Pairings

Wine and food pairing is a crucial aspect of the wine culture in Strasbourg. Alsatians have their unique cuisine, which typically includes hearty dishes and rich flavors that pair well with the region\’s wines. Some of the classic pairings include the Gewurztraminer, which goes well with spicy dishes such as curry, and the Pinot Gris, which pairs perfectly with Alsatian bacon and onion tart. The local sparkling wine, known as the Crémant d\’Alsace, is a popular alternative to Champagne and goes well with seafood and cheese.

Top 3 Wineries in Strasbourg

1. Domaine Zind Humbrecht: The winery was established in 1959 and has been producing premium biodynamic wines ever since. The wines\’ unique flavors and aromas are a result of the winery\’s natural production techniques and terroir.
2. Domaine Weinbach: The winery, located at the foot of the Schlossberg hill, specializes in producing Riesling wines of exceptional purity and elegance. The winery incorporates organic and biodynamic practices and uses minimal intervention in their winemaking.
3. Marcel Deiss Winery: The winery\’s philosophy is to preserve the vineyards\’ natural balance, and the production process aims to bring out the terroir\’s expression. The resulting wines are complex, nuanced, and have excellent aging potential.

Wine Tasting Tips

Here are some tips for a great wine tasting experience in Strasbourg:

1. Dress appropriately: Try to wear comfortable clothing and shoes since some vineyards and wineries require walking on uneven surfaces or climbing stairs.

2. Spit or savor: It\’s up to you whether you want to spit or swallow the wine during the tasting. However, if you plan to taste multiple wines, it\’s recommended to spit to avoid getting drunk or affecting your taste buds.

3. Take breaks: Drink water and eat some food (such as bread or cheese) between tastings to cleanse your palate and stay hydrated.

Final Thoughts

Exploring Strasbourg\’s wine tasting scene is a must-do activity when visiting the city. With its rich wine culture, diverse landscapes, and unique production techniques, Strasbourg offers an unforgettable wine experience that you won\’t find anywhere else. Whether you\’re a wine expert or a newbie, you\’ll find something to love about the wines of Strasbourg.