If you’re dreaming of experiencing authentic Alsace wines amid the holiday season, this Christmas Wine Tour at a family-run winery offers a delightful mix of history, flavor, and local charm. For just $29 per person, you get a 1.5-hour guided tasting in Gertwiller, nestled in the picturesque Grand Est region of France—right in the heart of Alsace’s legendary wine country.
What we love about this experience is, first, the chance to taste a variety of wines, from sparkling to sweet whites, reds, and rosés—each telling its own story. Second, the unique presentation in a cozy cellar with video projections on century-old oak barrels creates a memorable and sensory-rich setting. A possible consideration? The meeting point is outside, and there’s no included transportation, so you’ll need to plan your travel arrangements.
This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Alsace’s winemaking traditions in a small, friendly setting. It’s also ideal for travelers looking for an authentic experience that combines tasting, storytelling, and local ambiance—all without breaking the bank.
Key Points
- Authentic Alsace wines in a family winery dating back to 1778.
- In-depth guided tasting with a knowledgeable sommelier explaining regional varieties.
- Visit to historic oak casks, some from 1850, still in use today.
- Immersive multimedia show projecting on old oak barrels, enhancing the storytelling.
- Taste a range of wines, including sparkling, dry and sweet whites, reds, and rosés.
- Includes regional treats like gingerbread and kougelhopf, plus a gifted mulled wine bottle.
This Christmas wine tour in Gertwiller offers a rare glimpse into Alsace’s vinicultural soul, guided by experts who cherish sharing their family tradition. The meeting point is at Vins fins et Gites ZEYSSOLFF—clearly marked on a charming wooden building opposite a large parking lot shared with a gingerbread shop, which sets the festive tone right away.
The cost of $29 per person is remarkably reasonable considering the quality of the experience. For the duration of 1.5 hours, you’ll be treated to a comprehensive tasting that covers all of the region’s main wine types. You’ll learn from an experienced sommelier whose explanations are both engaging and accessible, making this experience valuable whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just curious.
You can check availability for your dates here:What You Can Expect During the Tour
The experience begins in the cellar, where the scenography and video projections on the century-old oak barrels create an atmosphere that’s both educational and dramatic. It’s a visual treat—think immersive storytelling paired with the aromatic allure of wine aging in ancient casks.
The guided tasting allows you to sample multiple wines. Expect to try sparkling wines—perfect for the Christmas season—along with dry and sweet white wines, some with a touch of local sweetness, plus reds and rosés representing the region’s versatility. The winery’s history and winemaking secrets are explained in detail, helping you appreciate each glass more fully.
The Cellar Experience
Seeing the large oak casks from 1850 still in use is a highlight. It’s a testament to the winery’s dedication to tradition. The video projection takes you on a journey through the family’s history and their philosophy of winemaking, all set to sound effects that make you feel part of the story. It’s a storytelling method that engages all senses and adds a layer of intimacy to the tasting.
Tasting & Regional Treats
After the tour, the tasting concludes with regional goodies: a piece of Kougelhopf—a traditional Alsatian brioche—and gingerbread. To warm your spirits further, you’ll also receive a bottle of mulled wine as a gift, perfect for enjoying later or sharing with friends.
Reviewers emphasize the quality of the guides’ explanations—Frederic from France called the experience “really great,” while travelers from Italy and Germany praised the excellent wines and warm reception. Many appreciated the personal touch and the insightful storytelling, which made the tasting more than just a sip-and-swallow affair.
If you’re interested in learning about Alsace wines in a friendly, intimate setting, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially well-suited for history lovers, foodies, and wine fans who enjoy understanding the processes behind what they drink. Be aware that since transportation isn’t included, you’ll need to plan your route—perhaps combining this with a visit to Gertwiller’s famous gingerbread shop or nearby villages.
This experience offers excellent value for its price, considering the high-quality tasting, the multimedia presentation, and the regional treats. It’s a great introduction to Alsace’s wine culture and a fun, festive activity during the Christmas season.
The Itinerary and Its Highlights
The tour is structured around a guided walk through the cellar, with the wine tasting woven into the narrative. You’ll start with an overview of the winery’s history, founded in 1778, which gives you a sense of tradition and continuity. The cellar visit provides a glimpse into the winemaking process—seeing the old oak barrels—a testament to craftsmanship that has persisted for over 150 years.
What makes this special are the video projections on the barrels that tell the family’s story and highlight Alsace’s winemaking philosophy. The sound effects and scenography evoke a sense of intimacy, like stepping into a living museum of wine.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Tasting Experience in Detail
The guided tasting is clearly the heart of this experience. The sommelier takes time to explain each wine’s characteristics, pairing suggestions, and regional nuances. We loved the way the wines were presented—from sparkling to sweet whites—offering a rundown of what Alsace has to offer.
Guests report the wines are “excellent,” with one reviewer mentioning that the Alsatian white wines are particularly “delicious.” The reds and rosés showcase the region’s versatility, even if Alsace is best known for whites.
The Regional Treats and Gift
The inclusion of kougelhopf and gingerbread highlights the regional cuisine, making this more than just a wine tasting. These treats complement the wines well, giving a taste of Alsace’s culinary heritage.
The gift of mulled wine adds a festive touch, especially fitting during the Christmas season. It’s a gesture that many reviewers appreciated, turning a simple tasting into a memorable holiday experience.
The Guide and Atmosphere
Based on reviews, the guides are praised for their knowledge and warmth. Frederic’s review calling the guide “excellent” echoes what many others have said—friendly explanations that make complex topics accessible.
The atmosphere in the cellar is cozy and festive, with the combination of visual storytelling and aromatic wines making it feel like a special occasion.
Practical Considerations
While the value is high, keep in mind that transportation isn’t included. Visitors should plan how to get to Gertwiller, whether by car or public transport. The meeting point is straightforward to find, but arriving early is recommended if you want to explore the village or visit the gingerbread shop nearby.
The tour’s short duration of 1.5 hours makes it easy to slot into a day of exploring Alsace, but it’s not a deep-dive into winemaking—rather, a delightful overview that hits many highlights.
This Christmas Wine Tour is best suited for travelers who want to combine wine education with some holiday cheer, set in a charming Alsace village. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate small, personal experiences over large commercial tours, and who enjoy stories behind the labels. If you’re visiting during the festive season, the scenographic presentation and regional treats make it a cozy, memorable outing.
Wine lovers will appreciate the variety and quality of the tastings, and history buffs will enjoy the century-old barrels and family stories. Plus, the value—with a guided tour, tastings, treats, and a gift bottle—makes it a worthwhile investment.
In short, this experience promises a warm, informative, and festive taste of Alsace that’s accessible and genuine—sure to leave you with a few new favorites and a richer appreciation for this renowned wine region.
Is transportation included in this tour?
No, transportation is not provided. You’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point at Vins fins et Gites ZEYSSOLFF in Gertwiller.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.
How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable activity that fits well into a day of sightseeing.
What wines will I taste?
You’ll sample a variety of Alsace wines, including sparkling, dry and sweet whites, reds, and rosés. The selection highlights regional specialties.
Are there any regional treats included?
Yes, a piece of Kougelhopf, Alsatian gingerbread, and a bottle of mulled wine as a gift are included to complement the tasting.
Is the experience suitable for non-English speakers?
Yes, the tour is offered in both English and French, ensuring clear explanations and storytelling for most visitors.
What is the price of the tour?
It costs $29 per person, offering excellent value considering the quality of wines, storytelling, and added treats.
This Christmas Wine Tour stands out as a warm, engaging way to enjoy the flavors and stories of Alsace. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just looking to soak in the festive atmosphere, it offers a memorable taste of local tradition with genuine hospitality.
You can check availability for your dates here: