đź›’ 0

Alsace vineyards

The beginning of vines in Alsace

The first traces of vines in Alsace date back to a time before the arrival of humans in the future Rhine Valley, although in forms different from today’s varieties. However, it was only after the Roman conquest that Alsace vineyards and vine cultivation truly took off in the region. Archaeological discoveries, such as seed piles and remains of wooden barrels, attest to the rise of viticulture, with vines gradually becoming a decorative motif on pottery and bas-reliefs. From the 2nd century onwards, the transport of wine along the Moselle and Rhine rivers indicates a rapid entry into the era of commercialization. The resistance of the vine to Germanic invasions in the 5th century temporarily weakened viticulture, but historical documents reveal a rapid recovery, particularly under the growing influence of bishoprics, abbeys, and convents during the reigns of the Merovingians and Carolingians. Over time, the vine gradually conquered the Alsatian land.  

The development of viticulture in Alsace

At the beginning of the 13th century, there were already around a hundred wine-growing villages, a number that increased to 170 by the 14th century. This expansion continued uninterrupted until the 16th century, reaching its peak during this period. The Renaissance-style houses present in many communes bear witness to prosperity, with Alsace wines exported throughout Europe via waterways such as the Ill and the Rhine. Strict regulations on grape varieties, cultivation, and winemaking emerged, reflecting the desire to promote quality viticulture.

The Thirty Years’ War in the 17th century led to a temporary decline, but the wine-growing towns of the Vosges hills quickly rebuilt. The period of the Revolution saw the emergence of problems, with the nationalization of land leading to significant consequences for the structure of the vineyards in Alsace. Despite the royal edict of 1731 attempting to restore order, overproduction became a concern, fueled by the mass production of wines during the Napoleonic era.

The vineyards of Alsace in all splendor

In 1870, the German occupation maintained mass production, but it compromised the identity of Alsace wines. Climatic disasters, vine diseases, powdery mildew, and phylloxera added challenges to the already difficult situation. After the First World War in 1918, Alsace once again became a French winegrowing region. Faced with diseases threatening the vineyards, winegrowers were divided over the best approach: the use of hybrids or the mass production of cheap wines. Vineyard area declined until 1948, when Alsatian winegrowers, grouped together in the Association of Alsace Winegrowers (AVA), worked to improve wine quality. After the Second World War, a restructuring plan was finally launched, and in 1945, the AOC Alsace was recognized, moving toward harmonizing the interests of wine industry stakeholders. The decrees for the AOC Alsace Grand Cru in 1975 and the AOC CrĂ©mant d’Alsace in 1976 followed, strengthening the regulatory framework to guarantee quality wines. Today, the Alsace vineyard, despite its tumultuous five-century history, is recognized as one of the most beautiful and greatest wine-growing regions in France. Thanks to the constant efforts of winegrowers, the quality of Alsace wines is unanimously recognized. The producers, united within the CIVA and the AVA, collectively contribute to the global reputation of Alsace wines.

Alsace Vineyard Map

The Alsace vineyards stretch over 170 km, forming the Alsace Wine Route, whose route was officially defined in May 1953. Most Alsace wines come from vines planted in the heart of the Rhine plain. Vines are also found on the hillsides, benefiting from the exceptional soils. From north to south, the Alsatian vineyards cover more than 15,000 hectares spread across 119 communes. From Marlenheim in the north to Thann in the south, Alsace will reveal unique landscapes. Wine-growing villages with half-timbered houses, hills, and vineyards all along the Wine Route. The north, bordered by Switzerland and Germany, is home to the traditions of the Vosges Mountains, offering views of the imposing Black Forest, and the tranquility of the Rhine. Further south, you’ll immerse yourself in medieval life in villages like RibeauvillĂ© and Riquewihr, where you’ll feel as if you’re back in the Middle Ages. Alsace, rich in wine variety, boasts several appellations and 51 Grands Crus. Producing seven noble grape varieties, the Alsatian vineyards allow for the production of completely different wines thanks to their diverse soils and microclimates.
OUR WINES
GIFT CARD
GUEST ROOMS
WINE TOURS